Fire heroes honoured


More than 90 people attended Morwell Fire Brigade’s annual dinner and awards ceremony at the Italian Australian Club late last month.

The brigade’s second lieutenant, Peter Keenan, was acknowledged as Firefighter of the Year while John O’Bryan was recognised for 50 years of service.

Steve Darling was commended for his tenure with the CFA, presented with a life membership of the authority honouring his dedication and commitment as a volunteer.

The group heard from Latrobe City Council mayor Kellie O’Callaghan who spoke about a time she visited a kindergarten and asked the children “what do firemen do”.

In her reply, Ms O’Callaghan said answers ranged from “saving cats from trees” to “a group of people who drive around in a big red truck with a loud siren and tall ladder”.

State Member for Morwell Russell Northe also attended the evening.

Morwell Fire Brigade publicity officer Lynne O’Callaghan thanked everyone for their support on the night.

“We’ve had a lot of new members join the brigade in recent years… it was good to see them turn up and be recognised for their work,” Mrs O’Callaghan, the mayor’s mother, said.

“It was lovely to see so many people who have committed so much of their life recognised for the commitment and dedication they’ve provided to the brigade too.”

In total, more than 30 members were recognised for their service on the night.