Dan Repacholi (Hunter, Australian Labor Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

Deputy Captain Ian Stevenson from the Branxton Fire and Rescue station 237 joined the New South Wales Fire Brigade on 1 June 1984. Ian served as a volunteer and then a retained firefighter until he was promoted to the rank of deputy captain in 2013. Not only has Ian helped protect our local community; he has protected New South Wales and Australia, for the past 38 years, from major fires—including dramatic structure fires—and from floods and motor vehicle accidents, whilst also being a vital team member and volunteer community first responder on behalf of the NSW Ambulance service. Ian was awarded the merit certificate from the New South Wales Police Force for his efforts and duties performed in a horrific accident in 1993. He received a commendation for his meritorious service in the storms of 2007 and a commendation for his meritorious service at a tragic house fire in Singleton in 2019. His departure from Fire and Rescue NSW will be a major loss to our community and a major loss to a very close-knit family at the Branxton fire station. Ian is not only a true leader; to many he has been a mentor, a best friend and a father figure. His continued involvement, witty humour and appreciations will be sadly missed but always welcomed. Thank you for your service, Ian. Enjoy some downtime, buddy. Cheers.