CFA life membership awarded to trio of District 22 volunteers

At a ceremony held during the brigade’s annual general meeting, the three long-serving volunteers were given the prestigious CFA Life Membership Award.

The honour is reserved for those whose commitment goes far beyond the call of duty, and for these three, it’s a fitting recognition of decades spent protecting their communities.

Alan Davies’ journey began in 1968 at the Dandenong brigade, a path that would see him serve across multiple brigades and eventually rise to chief officer in 2008.

Jim Selman joined Shepparton East in 1988, taking on roles from frontline firefighter to brigade community safety officer.

Stephen Merrylees signed up at Karramomus in 1980, and today he serves as District 22’s brigade health and safety officer and 1st lieutenant.

Together at District 22, they’ve fought fires, co-ordinated flood responses and helped keep the community safe through some of Greater Shepparton’s darkest days.

From shifting sandbagging machines to standing shoulder-to-shoulder as blazes rage before them, theirs is a story of service stitched deep into the fabric of the region.

Still, each man was taken aback when the award was announced.

“(This award) was a total surprise for me, but it is good to get some recognition, which we’re generally not after,” Mr Selman said.

“Ultimately, we really enjoy the camaraderie of one another ... and we’re all there for the same objective: to protect life and property,” Mr Merrylees added.

“At a volunteer organisation, you give freely, and to be recognised for some of that commitment over many years is a nice touch.”

And while recognition is appreciated, Mr Davies insists the real message is about the power of volunteerism itself, which they hope others join them in experiencing.

“History tells Victoria that volunteerism is a backbone in most communities, if not all communities, throughout Victoria,” he said.

“They continue to stand and deliver and should be nurtured for community good.”

CFA District 22 is looking for new volunteers to join its team.

Interested individuals can call 5833 2400 or visit the office at 195 Numurkah Rd, Shepparton.