Sydney’s Kenthurst Rural Fire Service has paid tribute today to Lionel Smith – a man described by the brigade as a “true Australian hero” who had served with the firefighting crew since 1944.
“It is with a heavy heart that today Kenthurst Brigade and the RFS mourn the loss of a true Australian Hero,” Kenthurst Brigade posted on its Facebook page.
“Lionel Smith gave over 75 years of service to the RFS, from 1944 to 2021.”
It said Lionel (pictured) was the first ever RFS member to receive a ‘sixth’ bar to his National Medal for long service.
Lionel was well-known for his invention of the Quenchmaster firefighting foam system, now widely used on majority of the states tankers.
“As well as championing the use of two-way radios in The Hills District, Lionel was always the man we’d go to to fix any and all of our equipment,” the Brigade wrote.
“If no one knew, Lionel would! He truly was an exceptional member of the NSW Rural Fire Service.”
Beyond his achievements Lionel was better known for being an exceptional man who was loved by all, his colleagues said.
“He was a great leader, trainer, mentor and mate. His dedication to the Kenthurst Brigade, The Hills District and the RFS was exemplary.”
“He will be surely missed by all of us here in Kenthurst and the RFS. We all have stories of the incredible things Lionel has done, may we all continue to share them!
“His legacy will never be forgotten. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends in this sad time.”
It’s understood Mr Smith passed away on Monday evening.
