My interest in the fire service began when I joined the Wairoa volunteer fire brigade in October 1944. Later I served in the Waiouru and Norsewood volunteer brigades. I was granted the UFBA 25-year Gold Star in 1974. Because of my job commitments I resigned from the service in 1975.In 1983 when I retired from work I was offered and accepted the position of secretary/treasurer to my old Norsewood brigade. My arm did not need twisting and I accepted the position with pleasure - my biggest worry was that someone else might have been asked instead of me. I served as secretary until 21 November 2000 but stayed on as treasurer and secretary/treasurer of the Tanker Society. Regretfully, for health reasons, I resigned from all positions on 2 July 2001 after a few months short of 19 years in these positions.
Norsewood firefighters did me great honour in September 1999 when they appointed me a Life Member of their brigade. It was a very humbling experience and I was thrilled to accept the award. The presentation evening was attended by a full muster of firefighters and many family members. I was presented with an inscribed silver tray.
