Local firies fighting more than fires
CAROLYN PIGGOTT
06 Apr, 2012 04:00 AM
NOT only are they the backbone of Lithgow’s Fire and Rescue NSW they have also been part of working for better working conditions for fire fighters across the state as part of the Fire Brigade Employee’s Union.
Because of their hard work campaigning for better conditions, fire fighters Paul Carter, Noel Ford and Lionel Johnston, and the many other members of the union, have managed to improve safety and work hours for present and future fire fighters.

One such change came in 2010 when it was decided our hard working, fire fighting heroes would be acknowledge after 25 years of service to the union.

Paul, Noel and Lionel were presented with honorary medallions by union president Jim Casey, along with 13 other fire fighters in the central west.

Between the three men they have been joining forces with union members for over 100 years and all agree it is a worthwhile cause.

“It wasn’t that long ago fire fighters were working an 84 hour week,” Lithgow Station Officer Noel Ford said.

“It was then a fight for a 68 hour week before 56 hours came in.

“Finally in the ’70s permanent fire fighters were awarded a 48 hour working week and this remains in place today.

“Conditions for work hours and safety have come a long way in the last 102 years but we still need to keep conditions good for those in the future.”