On Saturday night I had the pleasure of attending the Mangawhai Volunteer Fire Brigade honours night held at Mangawhai Golf Club and MCed by Chief Fire Officer Graham Kerrigan. The occasion was attended by dignitaries from Fire and Emergency NZ and the United Fire Brigades Association, along with past brigade members, families and friends.
This was a special event which included the recognition of the exceptional 25 years service to the local area by Station Officer Mark Wharfe. Mark was joined by his family including his son and fellow brigade member Hayden, with whom he shares a special bond through them attending numerous emergency events together.
Other brigade members receiving service awards were:
Gary Page-Wood 3.4 years 3-Year Certificate
Noeline Mallam 3.5 years 3-Year Certificate
Lee Clutterbuck 3.5 years 3-Year Certificate
Hamish Townshend 3.5 years 3-Year Certificate
Benjamin Walker 4.9 years 3-Year Certificate
Michael Hayward 6.2 years 3-Year Certificate + 5-Year Medal
Timothy John Clubb 6.9 years 3-Year Certificate + 5-Year Medal + 1 Silver Bar
Hayden Wharfe 7.4 years 5-Year Medal + 1 Silver Bar
Tanya Ritter 8.4 years 3-Year Certificate + 5-Year Medal + 1 Silver Bar
Matthew Williams 9.8 years 2 Silver Bars
Francis Meagher 11.4 years 2 Silver Bars
Neil McInnes 12.3 years 2 Silver Bars
Graham Kerrigan 13.9 years 2 Silver Bars
Saoirse Hatton 19.5 years 3 Silver Bars
Kaipara is a special place with many small townships that survive and thrive on the volunteer spirit of locals. Our local fire brigades make a real difference to the people by providing assistance at times when they need it the most.
Thank you to all brigade members for your valuable service.
