Lochinvar Rural Fire Brigade 60th Anniversary

Ms JENNY AITCHISON (Maitland—Minister for Regional Transport and Roads)—It was my pleasure to recently attend the celebration of the Lochinvar Fire Brigade's 60th Anniversary. The Lochinvar Brigade, which took in the members of the Bishops Brigade in a merger in 2012 is a highly regarded and integral part of the Hunter Valley community. Like all rural brigades, volunteers stand together assisting and protecting their communities against fires, floods, hazard reduction burns, motor vehicle accidents and any other disaster that can befall an Australian community. From humble beginnings in 1964, the membership is now more than 60 individuals. The brigade goes about their work quietly and professionally, taking time away from your own work and families to do so. The brigade not only assist their own community, but when called upon, in neighbouring communities such as Kempsey, Grafton, Maitland, Cessnock and Port Stephens. Thanks again to the Lochinvar Rural Fire Brigade for their support of the Lochinvar community over the last 60 years, it is greatly appreciated.