The longest serving member of the Martinborough Volunteer Fire Brigade has decided it’s time to retire. We say farewell to Station Officer Peter Fisher.
It was inevitable that Fish would become a fire fighter. His father was a long serving member of the Porirua Brigade when the Fire Brigade was the centre of the community. Fish quickly gravitated to this tight knit camaraderie, and joined the Porirua Vollies following the family footsteps.
In Martinborough Fish immediately became not only an essential part of the crew, but part of the Brigade Crash Rescue Team. His career with Martinborough progressed with Fish being promoted to the rank of Station Officer, and in this role he helped shape a series of brigade members several of whom went on to the professional ranks.
A tragic incident almost took Fish from us (the Paramedics said he actually died twice) and Fish faced a huge rehabilitation, which he approached with a single minded focused determination, with a goal to return to the Martinborough Brigade and again take his place riding the fire truck. Upon his return Fish lead the Operational Support Unit, and continued to train not only Operational Support Firefighters but also passed his wealth of knowledge on to our Recruits.
A highlight, and a departure from the normal process, saw Fish receive his Gold Star, acknowledging 25 years’ Service presented by his Father, who was also a Gold Star recipient, much to his delight.
We thank Peter for his unwavering commitment to Fire Services and Brigades, the Community and public for over 30 years. We value and appreciate everything you’ve done for your community.
