There are CFA volunteers of the time who are still operational with their Brigades, and more than one has remarked that it does not feel like 30 years ago.
It is important then that we take the time to remember those who lost their lives and those for whom the grim experience of 30 years ago resonates still.
In thinking of their experiences, we must be thankful for their devoted service in fighting those fires, and their contribution to the more sophisticated, more capable CFA that has been built since that time.
By its very nature, the anniversary falls amid the bushfire season, as Victoria’s firefighters are either fighting major fires or alert to the prospect of new fires emerging at any moment.
This is very much the time for Brigades to have the supportive atmosphere of family, as we and our fellow volunteers deal with the experience of confronting Victoria’s major emergencies, both those of today and those long past.
Please let us know if you see or feel a need for VFBV to provide support to anyone during this time.
Andrew Ford
CEO, Volunteer Fire Brigades Victoria
