By Jessica Anstice
Bayles Fire Brigade marked 75 years by opening its doors to the community, followed by a volunteer dinner on Saturday 31 August.
The fun took place at the station with volunteer fire fighters giving a number of children an opportunity to explore the fire truck.
“It’s always good when the children come down and have a smile on their face when they’re sitting in the driver’s seat of the truck,” Bayles Fire Brigade captain Tim English said.
“We had about 20 volunteers attend the day which was great.”
Bayles CFA volunteers put on a delicious Devonshire tea for all to enjoy and a historical board was set up for viewing and reminiscing.
The board displayed history of the brigade; including photos that went right back to their very first fire truck from 1967.
The brigade’s brand new ultra-light tanker was on show throughout the day.
“The ultra-light tanker is a Toyota that holds 500 litres of water opposed to 2000 litres,” Mr English explained.
“The tanker allows us to access properties with small lanes.”
The brigade dinner on Saturday night saw the volunteers rewarded with a 75 year anniversary plaque, which will be displayed at the station.
Cardinia Shire Council mayor Graeme Moore spoke to the volunteers and guests about the Bayles Fire Brigade’s involvement in the community, while CFA’s Stephan Keeting recognised the brigade’s efforts during the Bunyip fires.
Mr Keeting presented the brigade with a 75 year certificate, along with three service awards.
Jo Arnold and Christian Knowles were presented with five year service awards and Dinah Jacob received the 10 year service award.
