JIMBOOMBA QFES station captain Bernie Savage is retiring on a high just one month after bearing the Queens baton for the Commonwealth Games at Beenleigh.
Mr Savage started his career at the joint auxiliary and rural fire service station at 1990 and soared through the ranks to become the first auxiliary fire captain on April 23, 2005.
Following months of planning, Mr Savage was blindsided when his colleagues held a surprise retirement party in his honour at the Jimboomba station on April 24.
The event was attended by friends, family and those he worked alongside for many years.
Revenge will be swift and severe, Mr Savage joked.
It was unbelievable. I did not have a clue. I felt embarrassed but it was much appreciated and a very good night indeed.
QFES area commander Robert Bloss paid tribute to Mr Savage and his family for the sacrifices endured to make the community a better place.
On behalf of the fire service, we thank him for the time he has given to us and thank his family for the times he wasnt there the times he may have missed, he said,
Mr Savage said there were many things he would miss about the job.
I will miss the camaraderie, the interaction with the community and making sure it is a safe place for everyone, he said.
The job, in general, gives you a bit of a buzz and a rush. It is a very interesting and fascinating career.
Mr Savage said one favourite aspect of the job was his involvement in the community education program involving school visits and raising awareness of measures to take in fire emergencies.
For those who aspire to join Queensland Fire Service, Mr Savage recommended they follow their dream.
My advice is get in and do it because the time goes quickly and it is a really good career, he said.
There is so much to learn about the job. You never stop learning.
Mr Savage will remain active in the stations Rural Fire Service before it winds up in July.
He plans to spend more time with his family and will travel to South Africa for a holiday in May.
