VFBV

We are again saddened to advise that another firefighter has lost their life in the line of duty.  43-year-old Mat Kavanagh died on Friday when the vehicle he was travelling in was involved in a collision on the Goulburn Valley Highway.  A colleague was injured in the collision but is in a stable condition. Emergency Services Minister Lisa Neville confirmed yesterday his death was related to the bushfires, following a police investigation.

Mat had worked for Forest Fire Management Victoria for 10 years and was on active duty when the accident occurred. Before the crash, Mat and his crew had put out seven unattended campfires.

Our thoughts and our deepest condolences are with Mr Kavanagh’s wife and two children, loved ones and colleagues during this sad time.

On behalf of VFBV, CFA volunteers and all members we express our heartfelt sorrow and pass on our thoughts and prayers. We mourn alongside Forest Fire Management Victoria’s firefighter brethren during this time of sadness.

With hundreds of firefighters still battling out of control blazes across the country and with such a long season ahead of us, our thoughts are with all our crews and their safety.

Adam Barnett, Chief Executive Officer
Volunteer Fire Brigades Victoria