General News
13 May, 2026
Leach leads remembrance of heroic firefighters
FORMER Rheola brigade volunteer and current CFA chief executive officer Greg Leach was among hundreds of people to attend Sunday’s annual Firefighters Memorial Service.
FORMER Rheola brigade volunteer and current CFA chief executive officer Greg Leach was among hundreds of people to attend Sunday’s annual Firefighters Memorial Service.
Mr Leach and Chief Officer Jason Heffernan honoured the service of 85 firefighters from the CFA and former Country Fire Brigade Board and Bush Fire Brigades Committee who had been killed on the firefront.
Among the 85 on the memorial banner is Inglewood firefighter Alan McKean killed in the January 17, 1965, fire that destroyed 8700 hectares between Kingower and Arnold.
“CFA has a proud legacy, built through the challenges and sacrifice of hundreds of thousands of our volunteers and staff working tirelessly to defend lives and property,” Mr Heffernan said.
“But it also comes at a terrible cost at times – claiming the lives of 85 brave members who we continue to acknowledge, honour and remember at all times.
“Each have a story of selflessness, bravery and service, and are a significant part of our history.
“Their story has helped shaped CFA values today, and they continue to inspire firefighters past and present,” Mr Heffernan said.
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