The brigade continues to be busy with fire calls sometimes three a day combined with weekly training on a Tuesday night and further training and maintenance of the three trucks and supporting vehicle on Sundays.
The hoses need to be tested regularly for stress tears, leaks, and normal wear. This task is expertly carried out by a long time member Brian Unwin who has served this brigade for nearly 60 years and who with James Cain ensure our hoses are fit for purpose and do not fail in the critical times.
The brigade has three vehicles. Two supplied by the CFA and one brigade owned. This vehicle started its life as a Holden one ton ute with a tank on the rear. Its primary purpose in 1982 was to have some fire protection when the CFA tanker was seconded to other parts of the state.
As the town grew so did the fire fighting requirements. The Holden was replaced with an Izuzu truck and large tank. Funds for this truck was raised by members with raffles, street stalls, and businesses in Beaconsfield.
Today replacement cost is in excess of 300k and plans are in place to explore what options are available and how to pay for a new tanker in the future. Meantime the current truck is still fit for purpose and well maintained.
Please remember to check your smoke alarms are operational and that you have an exit plan in case of fire.
Brigade Annual Awards
The Beaconsfield Fire Brigade held its annual awards dinner on 28 June 2024 at the Beaconsfield Club with 2024 marking the 80th anniversary of the brigade having been formed in 1944.
The following members were issued with Country Fire Authority service awards:
- Mackenzie Gardner – 5 years
- Chris Jensen – 5 years
- James Cain – 25 years
- Bob Macpherson – 35 years
- Michael Ott – 35 years
- Andrew Wenczel – 40 years
The following members were issued with Beaconsfield Fire Brigade awards:
Scott Huijbregsen – Bob Burgess Award. The award honours Bob Burgess a former long standing captain who made an outstanding contribution to the brigade and to the CFA more broadly. The award recognises leadership, knowledge and skills in fire suppression, and diligent participation in brigade activities.
Sam Dorning – Adamson Award. The award recognises service and commitment by a member to support the running of the brigade.
Kylie Jeffrey – Mathew Baldwin Award. The award recognises a newer member who has demonstrated aptitude and tenacity to their work within the brigade.
by Tony Lukas
