Ron Hewlitt celebrates 80 years with CFA

Ron Hewlitt joined Maffra fire brigade in 1945 as a 14-year-old.  

The now 94-year-old Ron said the camaraderie he has shared with brigade members throughout the eight decades has been the highlight.  

"It's been really good to be a member of CFA," he said.  

"I still get together with them all twice a week for meetings, we have a cup of coffee and some biscuits and it keeps me going." 

CFA was only three months old when Ron signed up in July 1945 and he said he signed up because a work friend who was foreman of the brigade invited him to join.  

Ron said he walked into the station and never looked back.  

"I was 14 and that was that," he said.   

Ron attributes many of the skills he has gathered throughout his life to CFA and said he still enjoys learning new things.  

"It keeps me learning, there are so many people to meet," he said.  

Among his favourite memories is getting called to service during the annual fireman's ball in fancy dress uniform.  

Ron said one of the worst fires he attended was for a local garage which caught fire after some staff members spilled petrol all over the showroom floor.  

"We lost a couple of people in that one," he said.  

"It was really a huge fire, it just swept up everything." 

Deputy Chief Officer South East Region Trevor Owen presented Ron the medal in a ceremony in Maffra on Saturday to acknowledge his service and said it was an honour to have Ron as a big part of CFA for so many years.  

"To have a member who has seen CFA through from the very beginning is a huge privilege," he said.  

"The knowledge and skills he is able to share with not only his brigade but with the whole organisation is invaluable. 

“Congratulations Ron on your remarkable dedication and service to CFA and your community.” 

Ron was also awarded life membership as a part of his 80-year service award.