By LIA SPENCER
A ROARING blaze which spread across Clyde and Cardinia several decades ago prompted a call for a local fire brigade.
This year, current and former members, as well as local residents, will gather to celebrate the Clyde-Cardinia Fire Brigade’s 70th anniversary.
Firefighter Daryl Manks has more than 45 years of service with the brigade and said being in it has been an important part of his life.
“For me, it’s about putting back into the community,” Mr Manks said.
“In the early days there was a lot of friendship and comradery among the members.
“We ran competitions each summer against other brigades for the social aspect, but that’s been dying off because of the lack of support and the extreme fire season.
“We can’t afford to be running those events when our members are out fighting fires.”
There are currently about 30 members of the Clyde-Cardinia Fire Brigade, but Mr Manks said members were always looking to recruit more.
He said an event on 11 October was a fun way for the entire community, as well as current and former firefighters, to celebrate a great milestone.
“It is open to everyone in the community. We have many people across the country who already said they are attending.”
The event, which will be held from 11am until 4pm may be one of the last to be held at the present fire station on Railway Road due to proposed urban growth authority changes.
Mr Manks said the relocation could still be 10 to 20 years away.
The proposed new integrated station, as well as the proposed urban growth authority changes to the Clyde areas, can be viewed at the event.
A presentation of awards, which are normally presented at the annual dinner, will be presented about 2pm.
There will also be a jumping caste, old fire truck from the Fire Services Museum, a smoke hour and lots of old faces to refresh old memories.
Residents are also invited to bring old photos, stories, new articles and other memorabilia to share.
Photographs can also be emailed to clydecfa@futureweb.com.au before the event.
Anyone who wants to learn how to become a member can visit www.cfa.vic.gov.au.
