In the past few weeks you may have heard the siren sounding more during the day with a longer lasting wail. It is with great sadness that we have farewelled two very special members of our community that gave so much of their lives as volunteer fire fighters.
Ted Colenso served with us for 33 years with 25 of those years as Chief Fire Officer. He was a highly regarded and respected Chief who said “if I could live my life over I would do. it all again”. This is reflective of the man who gave so much to our community.
Wayne Thomas ‘Tomo’ served with the brigade for over 13 years finishing as a Senior fire fighter. Tomo was known for his commitment to fire fighting and never passing up the chance to jump on the trucks. 3 years ago Tomo dedicated an award for Fire Fighter of the Year to the brigade and his legacy will live on through those who receive this award.
The volunteer firefighter has been part of NZ life since 1854, however firefighting as a profession extends back centuries before that. With long standing institutions come traditions, and one such tradition is the sounding of a bell. Day and night each alarm was sounded by a bell which summoned firefighters to respond to someone in need of help. In more recent times the bell has been replaced by a siren, or a pager or an app on your smart phone.
We utilise these traditions as symbols, which reflect the honour and respect earned by those who have contributed so much, and those who have served and the legacy they leave behind. To symbolise the devotion that these brave souls had for their duty, a special signal represents the end of our comrades duties. This is called the Last Alarm, and it is fitting this is sounded for those who served the brigade well for the good of the community.
As we farewelled these great men the siren sounded, calling them for duty one last time.
Their tasks are complete, their duty is over, may they rest in peace.
To uphold the legacy of those who have served before us it’s important we continue with traditions honouring those who have paved the way.
We are currently restoring old photos and replacing old frames in honour of these people. Yes faces will change and people will come and go but theirs and our legacy will continue long into the future.
