This month it’s time to reflect and ponder what it means to be part of a small rural town like our own. There’s the old saying that you have to have lived here for at least 20 years to be called ‘a local’.
However this month our brigade has been humbled by the sheer nature of what it means to be part of this unique and special town, regardless of how long we’ve lived here.
Many of our fire and medical calls are to friends, family or neighbours and there’s almost always a connection to someone we know.
It’s not hard to imagine just how challenging our job can be when we are faced with someone we know having their worst day.
But that’s what also makes our job rewarding. Being able to connect, comfort and assist those in need cannot be quantified. It’s why we do what we do as volunteers.
We recently held our Brigade Honours night where we take time to not only reflect on our achievements but to also honour those who have significantly contributed their time to the brigade.
It’s not often we ask our community for help, generally it’s the other way around, so we were incredibly grateful to so many people when we reached out for help to convert our engine bays into what some called, ‘fit for a wedding’.
It was a magical night made possible by all those who provided fresh cut flowers, lights and decorations for the tables.
A special thanks to Tironui Farm, Ventana, Gravel Road Farmyard, Martinborough Manor and Trestle and Mortar.
The night was made even more memorable because of your contributions.
Awards presented on the night
3 Year Service Awards Jenna Matchett, Dylan Ross, Jason Clements, John Crighton and Corina Lawson.
Awarded but not presented Kathryn Ching
5 Year Service Medal Hamish Rees, Brett Townsend and Melissa Obrien
2 Year Silver Bar Simon Daly, Lisa-Marie Ireland and John Mansell
14 year Good Conduct Award Lisa-Marie Ireland and Craig Nicholson
2 Year Gold Bar Peter Fisher.
28 Year Good Conduct Medal Chris Hooson
The awards concluded with Chris Hooson and Jake Hawkins being awarded Honorary Life Membership Medals, for their long service and contributions to the Martinborough Brigade.
So when they say it takes a village, it really does. When the Martinborough Community calls for help in emergency situations we’re there and in return the community supports us when we need you. So thank you Martinborough!
