I rise to speak on a significant achievement and accolade to be awarded to David Blackburn, a constituent from Western Victoria Region. Mr Blackburn will be awarded the Australian Fire Services Medal (AFSM) later this year. Mr Blackburn, a farmer from Woorndoo, has been recognised with the highest honour in fire services for his 35 years of service to the Country Fire Authority (CFA). Mr Blackburn was particularly humble in his response. He was quoted in the local newspaper as saying:
“I’m quite honoured, but it’s really a team effort for the Westmere group.”
He went on to say:
“I see this AFSM as recognition of the CFA looking after its local community and if I have played a role in that, then it’s pleasing.”
I take this opportunity to congratulate Mr Blackburn who joined the Woorndoo CFA in 1986 after an eight-year stint at the Hexham CFA, as well as serving as both deputy group officer and group officer of the Westmere group. This summer alone has showed us the importance and value of our CFA volunteers. This award is a just reward for Mr Blackburn’s service.