The brigade was extremely busy during the 2002 / 2003 fire season. We attended various incidents at locations ranging from the “Austinmer Fire” in November to remote areas of the state.

We provided STARG crews for fires from Grafton in the north, the Snowy Mountains in the south and Cessnock in the west. Members who were able to travel away gained valuable experiences, enjoyed themselves and represented the brigade in a professional manner.

The 18 th of January 2003 goes down in Brigade history as one we shall never forget. Beginning like any other, members attended the station to overhaul the appliances and equipment after a prolonged period of sustained operational use. With a single phone call seven members were responded in Austinmer 1 and Austinmer 12 to assist crews operating in adverse conditions throughout the nations capital.

Members of the STARG team witnessed the brutal force of a fire storm and how nature vents its fury. From the time of the the initial call and throughout the following days all members involved can stand proud in the fact that they performed far beyond their call of duty, working under extremely hazardous circumstances.

To each member I thank you for you valuable contribution of time and effort in all aspects of appliance, equipment and station maintenance. To new members who have joined us during the year I would like to take this opportunity to formally welcome you to a unique and exciting organisation. To the rookies I hope you have enjoyed your “baptism of fire” and continue to learn and grow.

Finally and most importantly my thanks go to all brigade members and officers for your friendship, support and commitment. I offer my highest praises to those who are least recognised, our wives, husbands, girlfriends, boyfriends, family and friends who support us so well, THANKYOU.

Ray Barnes - Captain