Celebrating a Lifetime of Service
In a ceremony that highlighted the enduring commitment of rural Australia’s volunteer fire service, the Country Fire Authority (CFA) recognised a remarkable milestone: 70 years of volunteer service by Max Hateley. The awards presentation, held at District 17 Headquarters in Horsham, drew the attention of the CFA community, with more than 300 volunteer years acknowledged across the district.
A Lifetime Begins with a First Alarm
Mr Hateley recalled that his journey with the CFA began when he was still a teenager. “I was 15 or 16,” he said, reflecting on his first firefighting call decades ago. The early experience of stepping into the service of others ignited what would become a lifelong commitment to protecting communities during emergencies. His story mirrors that of many volunteers who answer the bell with courage, often while balancing work, family, and the demands of country life.
The Value of Long-Term Volunteerism
Horsham’s ceremony was not just about a single achievement; it was a testament to the sustained value of volunteerism in rural fire services. With more than 300 volunteer years recognised in District 17, the event underscored how decades of service accumulate to create institutional knowledge, trusted leadership, and a resilient local response network. Senior CFA officers noted that seasoned volunteers like Mr Hateley mentor younger recruits, pass on essential safety practices, and help communities prepare for, respond to, and recover from fires and other emergencies.
A Moment to Reflect on Community Impact
The CFA’s work extends beyond extinguishing fires. It involves community education, prevention programs, and a visible presence during gatherings and crises. Volunteers contribute to rural resilience—sharing skills, coordinating with local councils, and supporting families affected by disasters. The Horsham ceremony highlighted these broader contributions, reminding audiences that the volunteer fire service is a cornerstone of regional life in Victoria and across Australia.
Recognition, Gratitude, and the Road Ahead
For Max Hateley, the 70-year milestone is both an accolade and a pledge. “It’s been a labour of love,” he said, describing the everyday acts of service that have kept him engaged through good times and challenging seasons. The award also offers a moment of gratitude for all volunteers who dedicate themselves to safeguarding their communities, often at the cost of personal time and comfort. As fire seasons intensify with climate change and urban encroachment, the role of long-serving volunteers remains critical to the CFA’s mission.
Looking to the future
District 17’s leadership emphasised succession planning and recruitment, noting that the experience of veterans like Mr Hateley provides a bridge to the next generation of firefighters. With ongoing training programs, safety protocols, and community outreach efforts, the CFA continues to build a workforce that is capable, compassionate, and prepared for evolving risks. The Horsham awards ceremony therefore serves not only as a celebration of past service but as a catalyst for sustaining volunteerism in years to come.
As communities across Victoria remain vigilant and ready to respond, the story of Max Hateley reminds us that emergency response often starts long before the siren. It begins with ordinary people who show up, year after year, to protect their neighbours and keep their towns safe.
