But after 33 years at the head of the brigade, which is located between Jerilderie and Colembally, Ken has stood down as captain.
He was celebrated by RFS staff, volunteers and Murrumbidgee Council Mayor Ruth McRae for his tenure at the brigade’s AGM last week.
He will remain involved in the brigade though, as senior deputy captain for the coming season.
Ken joined the Gala Vale Bushfire Brigade in 1980 and was elected its captain 10 years later.
A merger with Boona Bushfire Brigade in 2009 saw him elected captain of the newly formed Emery Rural Fire Brigade.
During this time, Ken has led his brigade through many incidents, including large bushfires, motor vehicle accidents and structure fires.
The brigade services farming country in the Coleambally Irrigation Area, and is made up of landholders from the region.
“It (being a firefighter) is something well worth doing, I’d recommend it to anyone,” Ken said.
“It’s always easier as captain when you have a good brigade behind you.
“The community needs the structure of the Rural Fire Service to provide coordination in emergency situations.”
Ken was also quick to point out that he would have been unable to fulfill his role over the journey without immense support from his family, and wished Captain elect Julia O’Connell all the best for the future.
“You simply couldn’t run a farm and be an RFS captain without huge support from family,” he said.
“My wife Wendy and the kids have always been there for me picking up the slack as required.
“We are very lucky in our brigade to have a person of the calibre of Julia to take over the reins, and I wish her all the best in the role.”
For her part, Julia is looking forward to the challenge.
“I’ve stepped in to a role with very big shoes to fill. Ken has certainly left a large legacy to aspire to,” she said.
Group Captain Andrew Browning paid tribute to Ken’s drive and leadership over the past three decades, and echoed his words regarding his replacement.
“Under Ken’s guidance, Emery has punched well above its weight for many years.
“A case in point was the large Moonbria state of emergency fire in January 2013, which burnt over 4000 hectares of native grassland and timber.
“Emery crewed two trucks for over a week in succession - an immense effort for a brigade of Emery’s size.
“Fortunately Emery has a terrific replacement. Julia comes to the role with the skills, drive and enthusiasm to keep this capable brigade moving forwards”.
The brigade was delighted that Cr McRae was also able to attend the AGM to acknowledge Ken’s efforts.
“Kens is an amazing contribution and so worthy of recognition. Volunteers like him are the backbone of our community.”
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