Koondrook CFA Awards

On December 18, 2020,  Koondrook Fire Brigade held a Presentation Award dinner at Mates Koondrook. 

Nicholas Shepard received a five year certificate. Nick joined the brigade at a young age and unfortunately had to wait 12 months to do his minimum skills course before he could go on the truck. 

Since then, Nick has progressed very well, completing the crew leaders’ course, first aid course, breathing apparatus and structural fire fighting course. Nick turns out to jobs on a regular basis and is gathering the skills required for a volunteer firefighter. 

Glen Hammond (Gasket) received a 40 year Service Award. Gasket joined the brigade in 1981 and was foreman from 1989 to 1993,  then became captain in 1995 until 2001. After that, he remained on as a lieutenant from 2001 to 2009. Gasket has always been an excellent contributor to the brigade where his work and family time permit, as well as always willing to give up his time to go away in strike teams.  

Three Koondrook members, David Shephard, Glenn Hammond and Kenneth Bell received Bushfire Emergency Citation certificates for their efforts in helping fight the devastating Southern NSW Bush Fires. District 20 Commander, Michael Masters presented their certificates which have been signed by the premier of NSW Gladys Berejikilian in recognition of their service.

Ben Archard received Life Membership. Ben joined Cohuna fire brigade as a runner on the 24/10/1977, and represented them at many championship events. 

Ben rose up through the ranks and eventually became First Lieutenant before moving to Koondrook where he joined Koondrook Brigade on the 15/08/2005 and have benefitted from his experience for many years since.

Ben was a lieutenant at Koondrook from 2007 until 2009 when he became captain, and served in that position for eight years.

During this time, Ben has been the main driving force behind the FEM program which is now the brigade’s only fund-raising activity. 

Along with all the brigade activities Ben has always been actively involved with the VFBV both through the championship events at his previous brigade Cohuna, and also being the Koondrook brigade representative at VFBV meetings. Ben was also elected to the executive at the last VFBV election.   

This dedication has not only earned Ben a Brigade Life Membership, but also the prestigious VFBV Gold Star award. 

The award was presented by VFBV District 20 Council President and State Councillor, Greg Murphy.