Source: Victoria Country Fire Authority
On Sunday 15 March, Cosgrove & Pine Lodge Fire Brigade members came together to acknowledge and celebrate 115 years of service to the community.
Members were joined by their families, friends, community members, CFA District 22 Assistant Chief Fire officer Rohan Taylor, Volunteer Fire Brigades Victoria District Chairperson Paul Verbeek, Deputy Mayor Cr Geoff Akers and Kim O’Keefe MP to acknowledge and celebrate 115 years of the brigade.
The brigade’s story began in February 1910 when there was first talk within the community to form a fire brigade at Pine Lodge. Momentum grew and by early December 1910 a meeting was held to formally establish the Cosgrove & Pine Lodge Bush Fire Brigade.
From those early days of knapsacks and beaters, through to today’s modern 4WD tankers and firefighting equipment, the brigade has proudly served and protected the community.
The brigade also awarded several service medals:
- Colin Jeffery 60 years
- John Mason 50 years
- Peter Jeffery 40 years
- Noel O’Sullivan 40 years
- Stef Close 25 years
- Darren Cook 15 years
The brigade also awarded their first Brigade Life Membership to Colin Jeffery which was presented to him by Paul Verbeek, Volunteer Fire Brigades Victoria District Chairperson. Colin has been a member for 60 years, has held various roles and is a former captain of the brigade. Colin is a well-respected and valued member of both the brigade and the community.
To acknowledge 115 years of the fire brigade a commemorative book was launched documenting the brigade’s history from those early days through to 2025.
“The brigade wouldn’t be here today without the countless people who have contributed over the years – in big ways and small,” Cosgrove & Pine Lodge Fire Brigade Captain Jason Watts said..
“Every effort, every hour volunteered, and every act of service has helped shape who we are today.
“We are incredibly proud to reach this milestone, and for me personally it is a privilege to lead such a passionate and enthusiastic group of members. For a brigade of our size to reach 115 years is a magnificent achievement.”
Throughout the brigade’s history, members have fought fires both locally and beyond with many taking part in strike teams across Victoria and interstate. Most recently the brigade was deployed to the Longwood fires in January with members and the tanker committed for an extended period of time.
| Submitted by | Jason Watts |
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