Return to Rochester

Presentation to Rochester Captain Luke Warren

 

Recently Doreen Fire Brigade Captain Robert Bury was invited to attended Rochester Fire Brigade's Christmas party.

 

It was certainly a different environment to the early days of the flood response where Robert was the leader of Strike Team 1421.

Rochester is a Victorian community about two hours drive from Doreen that was significantly impacted by floodwater and is now in the recovery phase.

From the perspective of Robert as the strike team leader, it was evident the impact the flood was having on the community and the Rochester brigade members.

Early on, a care package was arranged by Robert, which included a replacement CFA flag for the fire station as a symbol that we stand with our fellow volunteers in the most difficult times.

Hearing of their circumstances, Doreen brigade members did a collection and raised a not insignificant sum to  the help Rochester brigade.

The two brigades have now developed a relationship that will provide future mutual support and training opportunities moving forward.

At the Rochester brigade Christmas party Robert presented the Rochester Captain Luke Warren the funds raised that will be used to bolster the Rochester community. As a symbol of the new inter-brigade relationship, Robert also gave the brigade a repurposed CFA helmet, hand-painted by John Bury (Robert's father) that was inspired by his personal experience in the devastating 2009 fires.

After a dinner of great country fare, Santa arrived with gifts for all the children big and small. Rochester brigade sure know how to put on a fabulous party.

Although there is still a lot of hard work to be done in and around Rochester, the CFA spirit and values were on show.

We are all proud as CFA volunteers to help others in their time of need.

 

Submitted by	Robert Bury