CFA commemorates lost lives of heroic firefighters
CFA CEO Greg Leach AFSM and CFA Chief Officer Jason Heffernan
CFA members, families and friends have come together in Ballan to honour firefighters who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to their communities.
Many gathered on Sunday 3 May at the CFA Training Campus at Central Highlands for the 2026 Firefighters Memorial Service, hosted by CFA.
Held annually, the memorial acknowledges the dedication and courage of CFA firefighters and allows families, brigades and community members to remember our fallen heroes, while reflecting on their exceptional service in protecting their local communities.
CFA Chief Officer Jason Heffernan said the annual memorial service is an opportunity for all Victorians to take the time to remember CFA members who have lost their lives while serving.
“CFA has a proud legacy, built through the challenges and sacrifice of hundreds of thousands of our volunteers and staff working tirelessly to defend lives and property,” Jason said.
“But it also comes at a terrible cost at times – claiming the lives of 85 brave members who we continue to acknowledge, honour and remember at all times.
“Each have a story of selflessness, bravery and service, and are a significant part of our history. Their story has helped shaped CFA values today, and they continue to inspire firefighters past and present.”
Volunteer Fire Brigades Victoria (VFBV) executives, and government representatives also attended to pay tribute to the commitment firefighters make each and every day.
“The loss of life is also a continual reminder and driver of CFA’s ongoing commitment to safety, training, support, and innovation to ensure we provide an environment where our members are safe,” Jason said.
“Today, we also reflect and honour more broadly, the loyalty, devotion and hard work of all CFA people and our firefighting community.
“I encourage all Victorians to take a moment to reflect on those who are no longer with us and recognise the incredible contribution our members make to protect others.”
Each year, the memorial is held in alignment with International Firefighters’ Day which was established following the death of five CFA firefighters near Linton in 1998.
A ceremonial banner embroidered with each firefighter’s name and details is flown at each memorial service to represent the names commemorated on the memorial wall, and another commemorates deaths of firefighters in the line of duty prior to the formation of CFA.
Recently, CFA recognised a further three historical deaths in the line of duty – Joseph Thomas Smith, Francis Edward Symington and Walter James Anderson. Three plaques were placed alongside the banners for reflection.
Further information and audio stories on each fallen firefighter can be found on CFA’s Roll of Honour webpage.