Fire and Rescue NSW (FRNSW) Firefighter, Peter Ryan, has been farewelled in style, commemorating his extraordinary 60 years of service at Oberon Fire Station.
On Sunday, the occasion was marked with a parade down the main street of Oberon, with Peter riding in a vintage ‘Dennis Ace’ fire truck, the same historical model stationed in Oberon between 1964 and 1973.
The FRNSW band marched alongside Peter in the parade, playing crowd favourites to farewell a stalwart of the service.
FRNSW Commissioner, Jeremy Fewtrell, and other senior members of the fire service’s leadership team were in attendance to show their support.
Commissioner Fewtrell has expressed his gratitude for Peter’s dedication to both FRNSW and the Oberon community.
“Impressively, Peter has been a fixture of Oberon Fire Station for longer than many of us have been alive,” Commissioner Fewtrell said.
“Peter’s knowledge of firefighting operations is only surpassed by his knowledge of the town and its people.
“His service to the community of Oberon is unmatched, and we are proud to have had a man of such integrity and dedication in our ranks for so long.
“While it’s a sad day for us, we wish Peter well on the next part of his journey.”
In recognition of his contributions to the community, Peter has been presented with a certificate of service by the Commissioner.
Assistant Commissioner, Cheryl Steer, highlighted the many developments in firefighting operations witnessed by Peter over the years.
“Firefighting operations and technology have certainly come a long way since Peter joined in 1964,” Assistant Commissioner Steer said.
“In the 1980s, FRNSW introduced advancements such as breathing apparatus, radio communications, safer uniforms and mobile phones for the first time… Peter has seen the introduction and development of them all.
“Six decades of service is a milestone that very few people get the opportunity to celebrate, let alone with the same organisation,” she added, “This is a very special occasion for FRNSW.”
Peter expressed his gratitude to his crew, organisation and community for their well wishes.
“It’s a privilege to have so many people here today,” Peter added, “Riding in the old Dennis Ace fire truck was certainly a highlight too.”
“I couldn’t be more grateful… this has been a special day that I won’t soon forget.”
