This Day in History: 2013-09-21

At the Firefighting Awards for 2013, Matthew Bartels, from the Morangup Volunteer Bush Fire Brigade, was the winner of the Firefighting Youth Achievement award, acknowledging both his dedication and commitment to the community as well as his local Bush Fire Brigade. Since joining his brigade, Matthew had completed his Crew Leader and Advanced Bushfire Fighting training which enabled him to carry out a number of volunteer roles. Currently studying at Murdoch University, he was using his new skills to enhance the work of the brigade by designing a contact database, updating IT training and equipment, as well as assisting with installation of a new security system at the volunteer fire station. The awards were presented during the Western Australian Fire and Emergency Services Conference, held at the Perth Convention and Exhibition Centre.

Sources:
Toodyay herald, Sept. 2013, p. 11 (photo); Oct. 2013, p.3 (photo).
Conference programme, 2013.