The Daylesford Fire Brigade marked one of the most significant events in its long and proud history last week with its Annual Service Award and National Medal Presentation Night, held at the Victoria Park Pavilion.
CFA Captain Glenn Webster described the evening as possibly “the biggest night in the brigade’s history” due to the number and prestige of the awards presented. The event recognised decades of selfless service to the community by volunteer firefighters, with many receiving long-service medals and the esteemed National Medal, issued for distinguished service in hazardous conditions.
Hosted by Captain Webster, the Awards Ceremony included the presentation of a large number of service awards by CFA Chief Executive Officer Greg Leach. Among the highlights were 50, 55 and even 60-year service medals — a testament to the enduring commitment of local volunteers.
Medal recipients included:
- 60 Year Medal: Ken Rea
- 55 Year Medal: Jack Walker
- 50 Year Medals: Robert Yanner, Alistair Grant, Harry Scascighini, Jenny Cook, John Liversidge
- 45 Year Medals: David Morrison, Geoffrey Morrison
- 40 Year Medal: Ivan Pearce
- 35 Year Medal: Robert Miller
- 10 Year Medals: Glenn Webster, John Jenkin, Carson White, Justin Moynihan
- 5 Year Certificates: Indre Kisonas, Gary Ralfs, Charlie Courtney
The prestigious National Medal, issued by the Governor-General and awarded for 15 years of diligent service in hazardous circumstances, was presented to Matthew Pearce. In addition, long-serving members received clasps to mark additional decades of commitment:
- First Clasp (25 years): Leanne Yanner
- Second Clasp (35 years): Ivan Pearce
- Third Clasp (45 years): Don Anderson, Alistair Grant, John Liversidge, David Morrison, Geoff Morrison, Harry Scascighini, Stephen Ware, Robert Yanner
These medals recognise the risks that volunteers take — from bushfires to road rescues — and the critical role they play in safeguarding lives and property during emergencies.
The CFA Awards Night also recognised the vital support of Community Bank Daylesford District, whose contributions have helped equip the brigade with essential tools to stay safe and effective on the front line. Over the past two years, the bank has funded the purchase of new breathing apparatus for the brigade’s rescue truck and a Bandit Hose Repair Machine — both critical additions for emergency response and firefighter safety. Margaret Hodge, a director of the Community Bank attended the ceremony to represent the organisation and join in celebrating the brigade’s exceptional service.
Established in 1861 following a destructive hotel fire, the Daylesford CFA has served the community for over 160 years. With 55 current members — including 27 operational firefighters and 22 brigade support personnel — the brigade responds to an average of 150 incidents per year, including bushfires, structure fires, and road rescues.
Daylesford CFA has supported operations during all major Victorian fire events in recent decades, including Black Saturday and the Hazelwood mine fire, and continues to serve both locally and state-wide. Its fleet includes a pumper for structural firefighting, rescue appliance for vehicle accident rescues, on farm rescues and industrial rescues, two tankers for grass and scrub fires and a 4×4 forward control vehicle funded in part by the Community Bank following the 2009 fires.
The brigade’s impact was especially evident following the tragic November 2023 accident outside the Royal Hotel in Daylesford that claimed five lives and left many others injured. Members who responded were later awarded a Unit Citation for Service and Commendation, and Captain Glenn Webster received an individual Commendation for Service.
Despite its long history, the brigade is firmly focused on the future. In recent years, it has upgraded facilities to improve access and inclusion, and is currently constructing a new turnout room as part of a CFA-wide diversity and inclusion project.
