Berowra Rural Fire Brigade History

Berowra Rural Fire Brigade was formed in 1943, by Hornsby Shire Council. The brigade was established in response to the need for a dedicated firefighting force in the area, to protect local communities and property from the threat of bushfires.

On October 27th 1943, the brigade was officially established with its first brigade elections taking place just one month later on November 27th. Bill Gainsford was elected as the brigade's first captain, while Stan Johns was elected as its first president.

Under the leadership of Bill Gainsford and Stan Johns, the Berowra Rural Fire Brigade quickly became an important and respected part of the community. The brigade's members, all volunteers, worked tirelessly to prevent and contain bushfires, always putting the safety of others before their own.

Over the years, the brigade has continued to grow and evolve, adapting to the changing needs of the community and the advances in firefighting technology. Despite these changes, the brigade has remained true to its core mission, to protect life and property from the threat of bushfires.

Today, the Berowra Rural Fire Brigade is a well-respected and vital part of the local community, with a long and proud history of service and dedication. Its members, both past and present, are held in high regard for their bravery, commitment, and selflessness, and the brigade continues to play a vital role in keeping the community safe from the dangers of bushfires.

In addition to responding to bushfires, the brigade is also called upon to attend to a wide range of other incidents, ranging from truck fires and multi-car accidents. On average, the brigade attends at least one incident per week, providing crucial support to the community and local emergency services.

In addition to responding to incidents, the brigade is highly committed to community engagement and education. The brigade recognizes the importance of educating the public about bushfire preparation,  home and fire safety, and helps to raise awareness and change behaviour in the community to reduce the impact of bushfires.

The brigade is well supported by numerous community organizations and actively participates in local events, such as school fetes, to raise awareness and educate the public. They are also available to visit local schools to give presentations on bushfire and fire safety-related topics, providing a valuable resource for students and teachers alike.

Through their community engagement efforts, the Berowra Rural Fire Brigade helps to create a safer and more prepared community, empowering individuals and families to take action to protect themselves, their homes, and their property from the dangers of bushfires.

In conclusion, the Berowra and District Volunteer Bush Fire Brigade is not just a firefighting force, but also a valuable resource for the community, providing education, support, and reassurance in times of need. Their commitment to serving their community and educating the public about bushfire and fire safety is truly commendable and a testament to their dedication and professionalism.