DOREEN volunteers were recognised for a total of 245 years of service to the Country Fire Authority.
An award presentation honouring members with Service and National Award medals was at Doreen Fire Station on November 10.
The presentation was attended by members, their families, friends and representatives from neighbouring brigades and was followed by an afternoon tea.
Group officer Lex De Man hosted the formal proceedings with presentations made by deputy chief officer Greg Patterson and commander David Maxwell.
All thanked the brigade for its contribution to the CFA and the Doreen community.
Commander Maxwell presented 14 Service Awards recognising 245 years of combined service and Deputy Chief Officer Patterson presented nine National Medals, including two with clasps, recognising 155 years of continued service.
The Service Awards begin at five years of service and Renee Birmingham, Jason Luxford, Emily Park and Isaac Rankine each received a five-year certificate of service.
Matt Stoneham and David Foster each received a 10-year service medal while Danny Bulatovic and Shane Franklin received a 15-year service medal.
Jennifer Brooke and Stephen Brooke received a 20-year service medal; Megan Perry received a 25-year medal and both Leigh Neale and Brendan Clifford received a 30-year service medal.
The longest service award given at the presentation was awarded to Ken Bassett for 50 years of service.
The National Medal is awarded by Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II to fire service members for their diligent service in hazardous circumstances in direct protection of life and property for a period of 15 years.
Steven Brooke, Robert Bury, Andrew Connell, Andrew Hoongenraad, Mark Roberts, Stephen Temby and Christopher Maries each received a National Medal.
Leigh Neale and Carle White both received a National Media with clasp. Clasps are added to the National Medals for each subsequent 10 years of service.
Doreen Fire Brigade captain Chris Maries said the commitment of the brigade members was made possible by the understanding of their families.
“While demands can be arduous for our members, it is the families and employers who deserve special mention for none of this would be possible without their understanding and support,” Mr Maries said.
Mr Maries also noted the support received by the brigade from the City of Whittlesea council.
“At Doreen we also enjoy the support of the many members of the community who drop into the station with drinks, ice creams and special treat to keep us going with words of gratitude,” he said.
“These are simple things which make a huge difference and we are very grateful to everyone concerned.”
