MEDOWIE Rural Fire Brigade will join firefighters around the world on the first Sunday in May to pause and remember colleagues who have fallen in the line of duty.

International Firefighters Day, also named St Florian’s Day after the patron saint of firefighters, was created in 1999 after the tragic deaths of five Victorian firefighters battling a bushfire near Linton, about 120 kilometres west of

Melbourne, in 1998.

For firefighters at Medowie Rural Fire Brigade (RFB), the day provides an opportunity to pay respect to their

fallen colleagues.

The respect firefighters have for one another crosses the boundaries of the many specialities within the profession

be it urban, rural, ADF, volunteer or career,” Brigade Captain Andrew Collins said.

“The role of a firefighter is one of dedication, commitment, and sacrifice no matter what uniform we wear.”

A memorial service will be held at Medowie Station on Sunday, 7 May.

Members of the public and neighbouring fire brigades are invited to attend.

“The intent of the day is to remember our fallen but also take the opportunity to engage with our community.”

Medowie Station will also join the international “Sound Off” – the sounding of the station siren for 30 seconds at

noon (local time) followed by a minute’s silence.

The Sound Off is an international event with fire departments and brigades around the world also participating at their local noon.

The event starts at 11:30am on Sunday, 7 May at the Medowie RFB Station.

By Gavin SMITH