Burekup firey ‘Browny’ awarded service medal for 45 years

Burekup Volunteer Bushfire Brigade recognised many of its long service award recipients on Australia Day, with one volunteer receiving a medal for almost a half-century of service.

Rod Brown, who was awarded for 45 years of service, said he was thrilled to be recognised within the brigade.

I’m chuffed, that’s the only word.

“I appreciate being recognised, but there is a lot of other people that should be recognised too, like other old blokes here that helped build the first fire unit we had here.

“I recommend it to anybody, have a go because you’re not committed to it, you don’t have to be there every day and night.

“Meeting friends, any of these blokes in here, we are all best of mates.”

Brigade captain Tony Jenour said the experience of “Browny” was invaluable.

He has been unbelievably good — the knowledge he has been able to pass on to the younger people is great.

“He has been a bit of pillar for guys like myself.

“He was veteran when I started and now to come up through the ranks and be captain of the brigade but still have Browny to lean on for experience is fantastic. The experience and composure he brings to the fire ground can not be replicated.

“It’s fantastic to have people like him.”

The service medals were also award to volunteers Michael Breheny, Mark Clarke, Richard Brookes, for five years of service, Josephine Inglis, Brad Pollick, Albert Fullarton, Gareth Johns for 10 years of service, Henny Royendyk, Brian Widdows, Chris Jenour for 15 years of service, Stuart Heasman, Jason Van Neirop for 20 years of service, Clay Rose and Murray Murfit for 35 years of service.