By Aneeka Simonis
FIVE long-serving Pakenham firefighters were presented with the National Medal at the unit’s awards events over the weekend.
Operations officer Jim Dore, 3rd Lieutenant Adam Blackney and firefighters Michael Page, Adrian Bailey and Andrew MacDonald were acknowledged for going above and beyond in their firefighting duties at the awards night on Saturday 22 October.
Recipient Mr Page, 54, said: “I was very proud to get the award. I enjoy the people and helping the community.”
The hard-working firefighters were nominated by the brigade, and have each done more than 15 years’ service.
Long service medals were also awarded to members.
Jean Kelsey was acknowledged for 55 years’ service, while 1st Lt Michael Corzelius was praised for his 25 years’ service achievement.
The unit also introduced a new award acknowledging members for every 500 call-outs attended.
Adrian Bailey and Adam Blackney were acknowledged for attending 1500 call-outs since the creation of the award while Andrew MacDonald and Michael Corzelius were commended for having attended 1000.
Firefighters Brian Alkemade, Gregg Clutterbuck, Marlene Jones, Lois Middleton and Michael Page were acknowledged for attending 500.
More than 100 firefighters and community members turned out to the awards night held at Pakenham Golf Club.
