Fatima Halloum
The Truganina Fire Brigade celebrated their 80th Brigade Dinner and Awards Evening to honour volunteers for their service.
Typically held on an annual basis, the event was postponed because of COVID-19.
“Two years ago was our 80th, but we couldn’t celebrate it then, so we celebrated our 80th dinner on our 82nd birthday,” Captain Mark Hatton said.
Awards are given to firefighters based on the amount of years they’ve served in the brigade.
“We had a couple of 65 years service, we had a few five year ones as well and everything in between,” Mr Hatton said.
The work the volunteers do isn’t for recognition, Mr Hatton said and their sole purpose is to help the community.
“It’s good to be recognised, we will never complain about being recognised and thanked, however, it’s not what we do it for.”
Mr Hatton said the awards do “help morale”, but being able to get together and enjoy a social dinner away from their typical work conversations is also beneficial.
“It’s good to let the hair down and have a chat for a few hours and see what’s going on in their life and how it’s all going.”
Mr Hatton encourages people of all professions and backgrounds to volunteer their time to brigade.
“The satisfaction you get helping your community, helping and working in the community that you live in, it’s the best part to me,” Mr Hatton said.
The volunteer firefighter says it’s important to him to look after his community and keep residents safe.
