Fire brigade celebrates milestone

MAIDEN Gully fire brigade is celebrating a decade of community service this week.Together with the Strathfieldsaye branch, the brigade was officially launched on April 28, 1998, and is now commemorating its service to the community.Captain Andrew Howlett said a lot had been achieved in the 10-year history, including the opening of a new station in 2002, an updated fire tanker, and the addition of the community funded Toyota Slip-On unit.‘‘Currently our brigade has 45 members aged from 16 years up to 86 years,’’ he said.Maiden Gully Fire Brigade is hosting a dinner on Saturday with CFA chief officer Russell Rees.Mr Rees will present the National Medal to Lt.Gary Amos and CFA Life Memberships to Captain Howlett and President Bruce Trevena as well as several service awards.The station will also be holding a Community Open Day at the Maiden Gully Fire Station on Sunday from 11 am to 2.30 pm.The open day will give residents the opportunity to inspect the station and discuss fire safety issues.Staff at the St Arnaud CFA brigade are also celebrating this week with the delivery of a new $60,000 command and control vehicle to be used to boost community safety.Parliamentary Secretary for Emergency Services Danielle Green yesterday handed over the keys to the 4WD which was purchased with the help of a $39,000 Community Safety Emergency Support Program grant.