Long-Serving Volunteer Recognised at District 17 Awards
In a moving ceremony at Horsham, the Country Fire Authority (CFA) marked a significant milestone: 70 years of dedicated CFA volunteer service by Max Hateley. The District 17 Headquarters Brigade awards presentation brought together hundreds of volunteers and supporters, highlighting the remarkable lifetime commitment that Hateley has shown to his community.
From Teenager to Lifelong Volunteer
A teenager when he joined the CFA, Max Hateley’s journey began in the late 1960s, a period of rapid change for rural firefighting and community safety. Over seven decades, he has witnessed and contributed to the evolution of volunteer firefighting in Victoria, adapting to new equipment, training standards, and community expectations while remaining a constant source of steadiness and leadership.
What 70 Years of Service Means for the Community
Volunteerism at this scale extends beyond the firetruck and the emergency response. It is about the quiet reliability of a volunteer who shows up at jobs big and small, from controlled burns to community education and prevention programs. Hateley’s record illustrates the CFA ethos: to protect life, property, and the local way of life by relying on trained volunteers who operate with courage, care, and collaboration.
A Partnership of People and Fire Services
The Horsham ceremony underscored a broader picture: more than 300 volunteer years were recognised during the event. These figures reflect not just individual dedication, but a network of teams, families, and districts that coordinate to keep communities safe. For District 17, it was a chance to thank those who have repeatedly put service before self, often balancing volunteer duties with work, family, and personal time.
Volunteerism as a Community Pillar
Beyond the drills and emergency responses, the CFA’s volunteer workforce strengthens community resilience. Local volunteers like Hateley mentor younger members, share knowledge about fire prevention, and participate in public education campaigns that aim to reduce risk and enhance preparedness across rural and regional Victoria.
Celebrating a Lifetime of Service
Max Hateley’s recognition is a reminder of how individual stories contribute to a larger national narrative about volunteering. The CFA’s commitment to supporting volunteers—through training, equipment, and leadership opportunities—helps ensure that decades of experience remain a living resource for current and future firefighters.
What Comes Next for Long-Serving Volunteers
While this milestone celebrates past and present achievements, it also signals the ongoing need for new volunteers to sustain the CFA’s mission. The District 17 awards ceremony invites younger generations to see the impact of long-term service and consider how they, too, can contribute to their communities through volunteering, training, and civic engagement.
Community Responses and Continued Support
Local residents, fellow volunteers, and CFA leadership expressed gratitude for Hateley’s decades of service. The ceremony highlighted stories of mentorship, teamwork, and a shared sense of duty that defines the CFA’s volunteer culture. As the event concluded, attendees carried forward a renewed commitment to support volunteers with the resources and recognition they deserve.
