By PETER DOUGLAS
SILVAN CFA volunteers haven’t held back in celebrating the highly anticipated opening of the town’s new fire station.
On an occasion that marked seven years of planning and hard work, Emergency Management Commissioner Craig Lapsley, Assistant Chief Officer Garry Cook and Deputy Premier James Merlino headed a star-studded turn-out for the opening on Sunday.
Some features of the opening include improved training facilities at the station, as well as space for a third fire-brigade vehicle, which can now be housed at the same location as the two tankers.
The third tanker had previously been stored at a separate shed, which was located three kilometres away from the main station.
Amid the fanfare, it was also an important occasion for several volunteer members, who received awards in recognition of their continued voluntary service to the CFA.
Geoff Peacock and Rowley Parker were both awarded Honorary Life Membership of the brigade, while Stuart Parker and Lindsay Parker were both presented with National Service Medals.
Other medals awarded on the day included Daryl Peacock for 25 years of service, Louis Turnley for 20 years, Tim Drewitt for five years and Josh Parker for five years of service.