Bev McNamara, Ferntree Gully Bendigo Bank general manager John Surridge, Community Bank branch chairman Hurtle Lupton and Noel McNamara present Upper Ferntree Gully CFA captain Peter Smith (centre) with $3000.
By Casey Neill
FERNTREE Gully has rallied behind local CFA volunteers following the loss of their tanker.
Crime Victims Support Association’s Noel and Bev McNamara and Ferntree Gully and Rowville Community Bank Branches presented Upper Ferntree Gully Fire Brigade captain Peter Smith with a cheque for $3000 last week.
The brigade will use the cash to purchase equipment for their replacement tanker, after their truck was destroyed in Upwey’s Nixon Road fire on 23 February.
Mr Smith said it would cost up to $25,000 to “kit up” the vehicle.
Shopkeepers in Ferntree Gully Village held a raffle to assist fire victims the following week and raised $800.
The McNamaras raised $200 from a sausage sizzle.
Mrs McNamara and her husband set up their support group 16 years ago following the brutal murder of their daughter.
“Where would we be without the CFA?” she said.
“It’s such an important thing and I think we’re so lucky to have them.”
Mr McNamara visited the fire fields.
“You can just imagine the inferno they were in,” he said.
“They’ve put in a lot, these guys, and they’ve put in for the people.”
Mr Smith said the donation meant a lot.
“We’re dumbfounded,” he said.
The Ferntree Gully Hotel will hold a fundraiser for the brigade in its Middle Room from 5pm to 10pm on Sunday 29 March.
The evening will include performances by Gary Pinto, Dynasti, Chilli Viv, Elextric Avenue, and more.
Entry to the all-ages event is $10. Under 12s enter free.
All proceeds will go towards new tanker equipment.
Ferntree Gully Hotel is located at 1130 Burwood Highway, Ferntree Gully.
Anyone with inquiries can call Kylie McDonald on 0404 533 742 or send an email to kyliemc85@gmail.com.
