Taree Fire Station marks 100 years of service - Taree

Published: 17 May 2025 02:18pm

Fire and Rescue NSW’s (FRNSW) Taree Fire Station celebrated 100 years of service to the local community on Saturday 17 May.

FRNSW Commissioner Jeremy Fewtrell AFSM joined dignitaries, community members, and current and former firefighters at a special event marking the station’s centenary including the Deputy Mayor of MidCoast Council Jeremy Miller, NSW Rural Fire Service (RFS) Superintendent Ugo Tolone, State Emergency Service Local Commander Lester Davis, and Captain Brock Forbes of the Volunteer Rescue Association.

The provision of fire services in Taree began in June 1893, when the first brigade operated out of a small station on the inaugural captain’s property Over the next few decades, the station relocated multiple times, including operating out of Belmore Hall between 1914 and 1923.

On 22 May 1925, Taree Fire Station officially opened at its current site. Major renovations were carried out in 1990–91, including the addition of a second engine bay. In 2005–06, the station became a designated Hazardous Materials (HAZMAT) station, with crews trained to respond to HAZMAT incidents.

In the 2023–24 financial year, the station responded to 779 incidents and carried out 238 community safety and engagement activities.

Over the years, firefighters from Taree Fire Station responded to numerous emergencies that tested their skill, resilience, and commitment to the community.

· 2019–20 bushfires: Crew worked alongside RFS and FRNSW strike teams to protect Mid Coast communities. · 2021: Supported evacuations and cleanup efforts during significant flooding along the Manning River. That same year, firefighters responded to a complex ethanol tanker rollover on a remote dirt road, where they worked for 36 hours to prevent an environmental disaster. · 2023: Crew attended a major fire in a 12-unit residential complex. Rescued an elderly man and helped ensure the safety of all residents despite significant structural collapse.

The station is also home to two of FRNSW’s long-serving regional firefighters: Station Officer Peter Willard, with 45 years of service, and On-Call Firefighter Owen Kirkman, with 35 years. Their dedication is a proud part of the station’s legacy.

Quotes attributable to FRNSW Commissioner Jeremy Fewtrell AFSM:

“Today we celebrate Taree Fire Station’s 100th birthday, and a century of courage, commitment and community service.

“The Taree crew has always been multi-disciplined and highly skilled, responding to everything from structure fires and Hazmat incidents to natural disasters and rescues.

“The station’s rich history is a testament to the generations of firefighters who served the Taree community with pride.

“I want to thank all the current and former members of Taree Fire Station for their service. This is a proud day for Taree and for Fire and Rescue NSW.”

Media note: footage including interviews from the event can be downloaded here: https://vimeo.com/1085153791/23fcae7c67?ts=0& [external link];share=copy