Truganina Fire Brigade has been awarded with a Chief Officer’s Commendation for their response to a car accident in 2021.
Country Fire Authority (CFA) units from Werribee and Truganina responded to an incident on Doherty’s Road on September 30.
Four young people were killed and two passengers seriously injured when the car they were travelling in collided with a truck.
Truganina Captain Mark Hatton said that while the recognition is greatly appreciated, it isn’t why they do it.
“I joined CFA as a volunteer when I was 18 years old, I was young and had a lot of spare time, and it has now become a lifelong passion”, he said.
“The brigade and I are dedicated to serving our community and we’re honoured to receive this award.”
The Commendation noted the “professional manner and skills displayed by the crews in responding to this complex and challenging incident are worthy of recognition and gratitude.”
Werribee Fire Brigade is also expected to be awarded a commendation in the coming months.
CFA Chief Officer Jason Heffernan said he was proud of CFA and all emergency services’ response the night of the accident.
“Our volunteers from Werribee and Truganina responded with the utmost professionalism and care to this tragic incident,” he said.
“No matter the time of day or complexity of the job, when the call comes our volunteers are always on hand to help people in their time of need.
“I am incredibly grateful for the response of our crews and other emergency services who did everything they could in the face of an horrific road crash scene.”
