CFA Recognises 2009 Bushfires Service
CFA volunteers and members who served during the February 2009 bushfires are encouraged to nominate to receive a commemorative badge to acknowledge their enormous contribution during one of Victoria's darkest periods.
Deputy Premier and Minister for Emergency Services, Peter Ryan said the Victorian Government welcomed the CFA's commemorative badge initiative, announced this month.
"CFA volunteers, career firefighters and staff were instrumental in responding to the terrible events that unfolded in February 2009," Mr Ryan said.
"For many of these dedicated CFA members, personal loss and hardships were put to one side while they continued to fight the campaign fires that engulfed the state and helped fellow Victorians in a time of great need."
Mr Ryan said the provision of the commemorative badge would serve as an important token of gratitude and appreciation from the CFA organisation and the wider community.
"The CFA plays a pivotal role in protecting lives and property and the extraordinary efforts of CFA members during February 2009 will never be forgotten," he said.
"I would encourage every CFA member involved in the 2009 bushfires to nominate to receive a badge."
The Victorian Government is working closely with the CFA to deliver better equipment and infrastructure, greater support for volunteers and improved consultation.
The State Budget allocated more than $65 million for the construction of 60 new or upgraded CFA stations and the roll-out of 101 new firefighting vehicles across the state within 12 months.
The CFA have 59,000 volunteers and over 500 career firefighters dedicated to protecting the safety and wellbeing of Victorians.