Crib Point Brigade celebrates 75 years of service

The brigade has been operating since 1950, when a group of residents met at Buff’s Hall to establish an organised fire service for the growing township.

Crib Point Captain Greg Rose, who has been involved with the brigade since 2018, said they wouldn’t be here today if it wasn’t for everyone who has contributed to the brigade in some capacity.  

“Reaching 75 years is a reflection of the brigade’s continual commitment to the community,” Greg said. 

“Our priority has always been the safety of our community and it will continue to be at the heart of everything we do for years to come.  

“We fight fires, but we also work hard on community engagement to strengthen and maintain strong connections.”  

In Crib Point’s early years, the brigade had no dedicated fire station and members fought fires with knapsacks and beaters. As the Westernport region grew, so did Crib Point’s firefighting capacity.  

Today, the town has a newly built station featuring modern amenities, training rooms and a three-bay drive-through motor room, alongside modern trucks, including a field command vehicle.  

“The changes are a sign of how far we have come, from a small shed to a modern station equipped for the future,” Greg said. 

“Even as we have modernised over the years, that sense of community has remained the same.” 

Crib Point has been at the frontline of many major incidents both locally and interstate over their 75 years of service.  

“The 2016 Esplanade bushfire was a particularly challenging one because it came very close to town. It was touch and go there for several days, but crews worked hard to stop the spread,” Greg said.  

Looking ahead, Greg hopes the brigade continues to evolve and says they are always looking for new volunteers.  

“Our volunteers range from junior brigade members in their teens to 82 years old, and everyone brings something valuable,” Greg said. 

“You don’t have to be on the fireground squirting water to make a difference.  

“No matter the role each volunteer plays, what unites us is the bond we share and the pride we have in serving the Crib Point community.”   

On the night, ex-captain Geoff Watson and Jeff Fletcher received their fourth clasp to their National Medal, indicating both have contributed more than 55 years of service to the brigade. 

As Crib Point marks 75 years of service, the brigade remains committed to protecting its community with the same passion and dedication that has defined its service since 1950.