Round of thanks for fire heroes

CARDINIA Shire residents flocked to Pakenham Lakeside’s amphitheatre on Sunday to pay tribute to firefighters and other volunteers who protected us during Bunyip’s worst firestorm.
About 800 people watched on as presentations were made honouring more than 600 firefighters from 20 local brigades, other groups, organisations and individuals involved in the firefighting effort.
The council’s Thankyou Firies event was organised in partnership with the Cardinia Foundation, local emergency services, businesses, church groups and service organisations.
Cardinia Shire mayor Bill Pearson said the event was a fitting way to thank those who did such a fantastic job.
“For all of us, the Black Saturday bushfires rank among the most traumatic and challenging time of our lives,” he said.
“The men and women who make up the CFA and our other emergency services are heroes who risked their own lives to protect us all.”
Pakenham Upper CFA volunteer Kelly Hicks said the event was important as it enabled Cardinia Shire’s firefighters to get together and reflect on Black Saturday.
“It was a great turnout, and council put it together very well. The photo slideshow was quite good as it gave everyone a chance to look back on the event together,” she said.
Reverend Hilary Roath from St James Anglican Church led the memorial and thanksgiving service that featured many of Cardinia’s churches and a combined singing group.
Performances by the Cardinia Civic Concert band and a moving visual presentation of photographic images depicting the fire fighting effort put together by Geoff Peterkin from Pakart were among the highlights of the day.
A free sausage sizzle and a host of children’s activities and entertainment ensured there was plenty of fun for the whole family.