WA’s best firefighters

BRUCE Johnston has been named Career Fire and Rescue Service of Western Australia award winner for 203.

Mr Johnston, from FESA’s capability development arm was awarded for his dedication to establishing the urban search and rescue capability for WA.

Esperance Volunteer Fire and Rescue Service won the Volunteer Fire and Rescue Service of WA award for its involvement in the local community and response to numerous fire incidents.

Shirley Morris from the Gingin West Bush Fire Brigade won the Volunteer Bush Fire Service of WA Award for her outstanding commitment to the community and emergency services.

This year a new award was added to honour firefighters who had died in the line of duty.

The inaugural West Australian Firefighters’ Commemorative Award went to Ocean Farm Volunteer Bush Fire Brigade captain Barry Andrews who was recognised for the strength and leadership he displayed during an extremely difficult and emotional time for the brigade during the 2003 Lancelin wild fires.

The awards are sponsored by RAC Insurance and the Rotary Club of Whitfords.