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Family members and representatives of CFA recently gathered to witness the installation of new signage at the Firefighters Memorial in the Linton State Forest.
Family members and representatives of CFA recently gathered to witness the installation of new signage at the Firefighters Memorial in the Linton State Forest.
The site commemorates five Geelong West Fire Brigade members, Matthew Armstrong, Stuart Davidson, Christopher Evans, Jason Thomas and Garry Vredeveldt who tragically lost their lives when their tanker was overrun by fire during the Linton bushfires on 2 December 1998.
CFA CEO Greg Leach AFSM attended the unveiling and said the memorial is a place for visitors to quietly pause and reflect on an event that continues to shape CFA to this day.
“It is a place of reverence for the families and CFA community, the newly installed signage will now share the story of the fire and its aftermath with everyone who visits, ensuring future generations can understand the significance of the site,” Greg said.
“It’s really important that we capture the story of what happened here at Linton on 2 December 1998, to ensure that future generations of firefighters understand the risks of firefighting, and the significant advancements in firefighting technology that have largely come about because of what happened here.
“These storyboards will ensure that this story lives on for a long time to come. And it is a tribute to the families for their perseverance to make sure that this story can be told.”
The signs include reflections from family members, providing personal perspectives on the lives of the five firefighters.
“For many, many years Billy Thomas (father of Jason Thomas) was the one that really pushed hard to get these storyboards done. Whilst he’s not here today, he would be really proud of what’s happened. It sort of completes the story.” Max Davidson, father of Stuart, said.
The Linton fire also had a lasting impact on CFA, shaping firefighter training, safety, equipment and operational coordination.
The project was jointly funded by CFA and Forest Fire Management Victoria, supporting the ongoing recognition and remembrance of the five firefighters who paid the ultimate sacrifice.
