The NSW Government today expressed its deepest sympathies to the family and colleagues of long-serving firefighter Michael Kidd, who died while battling a house fire at Grose Vale this morning.
Fire and Rescue NSW (FRNSW) confirmed the death today, with FRNSW Commissioner Jeremy Fewtrell describing Firefighter Kidd as a "kind and selfless" man who dedicated his life to keeping others safe.
Firefighter Kidd had served as an on-call firefighter for Richmond Fire Station since joining FRNSW in 2010.
He was awarded a National Emergency Medal and a Premier's Bushfire Citation for his efforts protecting his local community during the 2019-20 Black Summer fires.
In 2020, he was recognised with a Long Service & Good Conduct Medal.
Firefighter Kidd had also been a volunteer member of the NSW Rural Fire Service (RFS) since 1989, for which he received a National Medal and a Long Service Medal in 2013.
It is understood the 51-year-old was struck by a falling wooden beam while battling the blaze at a home on Grose Vale Road at 7:55am.
FRNSW and RFS firefighters moved him away from the house and performed CPR until paramedics arrived. Among the first to respond to the incident was an off-duty FRNSW Inspector, who lived nearby. He also provided initial medical assistance.
Tragically, despite their efforts, Mr Kidd died at the scene.
Firefighter Kidd is survived by his wife and two adult children.
FRNSW is providing support to his family, crews and the broader firefighting community through internal wellbeing and chaplaincy services.
Support for the general community is also available through:
- Lifeline - 13 11 14
- Beyond Blue - 1300 22 4636
Minister for Emergency Services Jihad Dib said:
"Firefighters are extraordinary people who dedicate their lives to protecting others and Firefighter Kidd has been a shining example of that for decades."
"Today, while protecting our community, he tragically lost his life, and this will be felt across the emergency services. His crew at FRNSW and fellow RFS members who came to his assistance are also in our thoughts as they deal with the loss of a valued colleague. I cannot imagine the grief they are feeling."
"We join his family, friends and colleagues in mourning an outstanding member of the community and honour his service as a member of FRNSW and the RFS."
FRNSW Commissioner Jeremy Fewtrell said:
"Firefighter Kidd has made an amazing contribution to the Hawkesbury community over many years and the impacts of his death will be widely felt for a long time to come."
"Tragedies like this are always difficult to comprehend, but it's particularly cruel that Firefighter Kidd's death has occurred less than two weeks from Christmas."
"We will continue to support his family and colleagues at this difficult time."
