THE Woodhill Rural fire station has changed a lot in 50 years, but one volunteer’s passion to serve the community has lived on.
Max Wyatt was one of the founding members of the rural fire brigade in 1968 and still serves as a fire warden.
He will be one among many volunteers to be awarded for his service at Woodhill Rural Fire Brigade's 50th anniversary celebration on Saturday, December 1.
Queensland Fire and Emergency Services Commissioner Katarina Carroll, Logan councillors and state and federal MPs will attend the event.
First officer Ben Heilbronn reflected on the impact of Cyclone Debbie in April, 2017, when he said the brigade was happy to serve the community in both good and difficult times.
“We have a station with solar panels and generators, so when Cyclone Debbie came through and no one had power for four or five days we were able to offer people hot water, showers and flushing toilets,” he said.
“We were a refuge centre and kept people updated on river heights and road closures. Charging tables were set up for devices because everyone wanted to know what was happening.
“This was the single biggest way we engaged with the community and went viral on Facebook...the response we provided got us the Commissioners Award for Excellence in Recovery.
“We are here to build a strong and more resilient community.”
The 50 year anniversary will be split in two parts.
Read more: Fire extinguished at Stoney Camp Road
Read more: Neighbour comes to the rescue
From 9.30am, there will be a formal awards presentation with national service medals and plaques to be awarded to select members.
Following the ceremony, the fire station will be open to the public from 11am.
People will have a chance to have a look inside a rural fire truck and can enjoy entertainment including a jumping castle, free BBQ and photos with Santa.
The Beaudesert Men Shed will donate Santa’s chair, plaques and Santa suits for the event.
Mr Heilbronn said anyone was welcome to join the 40 member strong brigade.
“We welcome new members and believe that from the moment you pass your paperwork and criminal history check you will be active with us as a brigade,” he said.
“You will go on trips with us and do hazard reduction burns and you will participate in things we are doing.
“We believe you learn far more on a truck going to jobs then you can in any other scenario or through paperwork.”
Mr Heilbronn said the brigade welcomed three new members this year.
Volunteers include retirees, full time workers, mums, students, high school graduates and more.
