Brigade marks service

By Tania Martin
MOUNT Evelyn fire brigade last month celebrated 70 years of service to the community with a big birthday bash at the York on Lilydale resort.
More than 136 past and present members gathered on 17 October to welcome the arrival of a restored Graham pumper and the brigade’s current pumper.
CFA chief officer Russell Rees and Mount Evelyn identity Bill ‘Doc’ Hardy were just some of the special guests at the big bash.
Brigade faithful enjoyed a night of food, music, entertainment and a number of presentations reminiscing over the good old days.
Long-time former first lieutenant Bernie Doolan spoke about the brigade’s early history and its many colourful characters that helped shaped the unit.
Former captain Ken Reed recalled how the brigade outgrew its station in Wray Crescent and worked hard to campaign for a new and the current station house on York Road.
Mr Rees congratulated the brigade for its continued commitment to the community over the past 70 years.
Captain Ken Mitchell told the party of the numerous and varied fires and incidents the brigade has been called out to over the years.
He also spoke about some of the brigade’s historical statistics.
Volunteer firefighters Steve Deakins said the countless stories told during the night between old and new members proved there was little difference between the firefighters of the past and present.
“They are all equally committed to the safety of their community,” he said.
Mr Deakins said the brigade would like to thank the Mount Evelyn community for all its generous support over the years and hopes it will continue for years to come.