The Donnellys Crossing Volunteer Rural Fire Force has come along way since it inception three-and-a-half years ago.
According to controller Bob Donald, among the 20 callouts a year there have been some big challenges. This included the Waipoua coastal fire which took three days of vigilance, and the 36 hours of
non-stop civil defence duties required during the July 2007 big storm.
In an honours function attended by Northland MP John Carter and Kaipara District Council and fire service representatives, members were honoured with a number of internal awards which included longest serving fireman, Margie Ormsby, most callouts attended, Rihari Daniels, outstanding achievement, Diane Reihana Ruka and Georgina Williams, and outstanding dedication, Dave Collyer.
Robert Donald, Dave Collyer, Diane Reihana Ruka, Georgina Williams and Maggie Ormsby received their three-year service medals and were also acknowledged for having completed and passed national certificates in vegetation fire fighting.
John Carter, who is also minister of civil defence, congratulated the volunteers on providing an essential community service, sentiments echoed by KDC chief executive, Jack McKerchar and councillor Brian McEwing.
In congratulating the 12 firefighters and three cadets principal rural fire officer, Fiona Vessey thanked the volunteers' families and noted the time and effort required to train and pass the necessary qualifications.
Mr Donald said membership has remained constant over the last three years, although there has been a few changes.
The rural force began with only a trailer and plenty of enthusiasm and now has an Izuzu response unit, a long-wheel base 'troop carrier', a trailer and a 500-litre tank.
