Published on Monday, 21 September 2026 at 8:50:30 AM
The Shire of Ravensthorpe proudly congratulates its Volunteer Bush Fire Brigades on being named winners of the Volunteer Firefighting Team Achievement Award at the 2026 WA Fire and Emergency Services (WAFES) Awards.
The award recognises the collective contribution of the Shire’s West River, North Ravensthorpe, Mount Short, East Ravensthorpe, Jerdacuttup, Cocanarup, Hopetoun Rural and Munglinup brigades.
It follows an intense 2025–26 bushfire season, including significant incidents at West River and Fitzgerald River National Park, which required an extraordinary commitment from local volunteers over an extended period.
Shire President Cr Rachel Gibson said it was very special to be part of the celebrations on the night and see the efforts of the Shire’s volunteers recognised.
“Congratulations to all eight of our brigades and every volunteer who contributed during the terrible fire season we experienced,” Cr Gibson said.
“This award is so well deserved and recognises an incredible community team effort. There is no ‘I’ in team, and this is what community is all about.
“As we celebrate this achievement, we also remember our late Deputy Shire President Cr Mark Mudie, who tragically lost his life during the West River bushfire.”
The Shire’s volunteer bush fire brigades are an essential part of our community, made up of local people who step away from their farms, businesses, workplaces and families when they are needed most.
They were selected as the winners from three finalists, with Denmark Volunteer Fire and Rescue Service and Nickol Bay Bush Fire Brigade also recognised on the night.
The WAFES Awards recognise the achievements of volunteers, career firefighters and Department of Fire and Emergency Services staff from across Western Australia who have demonstrated exceptional dedication to duty and service to their communities.
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