Last night at the Kangaroo Ground Emergency Operations Centre, Nillumbik hosted the Blessing of the Fleet, bringing together volunteers, local leaders and the community to recognise the essential work of CFA brigades across Nillumbik.
Mayor John Dumaresq welcomed representatives from all 15 local brigades and two groups, acknowledging the outstanding service and dedication of CFA volunteers who play a crucial role in protecting the community.
Rev. Mohit Sampson, CFA District 14 Chaplain, led readings and prayers, followed by Lt Chris Fidler of the Kangaroo Ground CFA Brigade reciting the Firefighter's Prayer.
The CFA trucks were officially blessed as part of the ceremony, symbolising the readiness and resilience of Nillumbik's CFA.
The Mayor highlighted the unique landscape of Nillumbik, surrounded by bushland and natural beauty, and the associated bushfire risks.
He reiterated Council's commitment to working alongside emergency services, including the upcoming Community Bushfire Expo on Sunday 5 October, an opportunity for the community to get their fire plans in order and to share those plans with neighbours and family.
"The CFA's expertise and leadership are essential in supporting our residents to prepare, act and survive in the face of bushfire threats," Cr Dumaresq said.
"Reducing bushfire risk is a shared responsibility, one that requires ongoing commitment from all of us, not just during fire season, but throughout the year."
"May your fleet be protected and may we continue working together to keep our community safe," he said.
Council provided the brigades and groups with a total financial contribution of $49,000 for their ongoing service to the community.
The recipients were:
- Arthurs Creek Fire Brigade – Firefighter Sue Apted
- Christmas Hills Fire Brigade – Lt Stuart Lawson
- Diamond Creek Fire Brigade – Captain Noel Farmer
- Doreen Fire Brigade – Captain Matt Stoneham
- Eltham Fire Brigade – Captain Steve Riley
- Hurstbridge Fire Brigade – Lt Darren King
- Kangaroo Ground Fire Brigade – Lt Chris Fidler
- Kinglake Fire Brigade – Captain Paul Buck
- North Warrandyte Fire Brigade – Captain Trent Burriss
- Panton Hill Fire Brigade – Captain Simon Wallace
- Plenty Fire Brigade – Captain David Rumble
- Research Fire Brigade – Captain Neville Stewart
- St Andrews Fire Brigade – Captain Richard Lee-Porcher
- Wattle Glen Fire Brigade – Captain Tyson Prenc
- Yarrambat Fire Brigade – Alex Daio accepted on behalf of the Captain
- Whittlesea/Diamond Valley Group – Deputy Group Officer Heather Scale
- Nillumbik Group – Deputy Group Officer Alistair Frost
Visit our website to keep up to date with ongoing information on preparedness during the summer months. nillumbik.vic.gov.au/Residents/Fire-flood-and-emergencies
