Forestville RSL became the heart of local pride as current and former volunteers, civic leaders and community members gathered to honour 60 years of service by the Northern Beaches Headquarters Rural Fire Brigade.
Six Decades of Local Protection
The anniversary dinner was held on Saturday, 13 September at Forestville RSL, with over 90 attendees including former NSW RFS Commissioner Shane Fitzsimmons, Northern Beaches Mayor Sue Heins and Mackellar MP Dr Sophie Scamps.
The HQ Brigade first formed in 1965 following the closure of the Frenchs Forest brigade and originally operated from Terrey Hills before moving to its current Kamber Road fire control centre. The focus of the night was not on ceremony, but on the long-standing responsibility the brigade has carried for fire, storm, rescue and large-scale emergency support across New South Wales.
Leaders Praise Volunteers and Legacy
Speakers reflected on how the brigade helped shape the wider NSW RFS workforce. Fitzsimmons acknowledged that many former Headquarters volunteers had gone on to statewide leadership roles after beginning their service in Forestville.
Mayor Heins said the brigade’s 60-year history embodied commitment through bushfires, floods and emergency deployments beyond the Northern Beaches. She noted how the brigade evolved from basic equipment and trucks to state-level capability. Dr Scamps shared a personal story of witnessing RFS crews running toward danger while she evacuated during a fire, saying it shaped her respect for volunteer firefighters.
A Living Community Institution
Brigade Captain Paul Britton thanked current members, retired volunteers and families for their sustained support, saying the Headquarters Brigade was built on collective persistence rather than individual recognition.
The sentiment across all speakers was that the brigade’s strength came from its volunteers’ willingness to respond, often at short notice, and their ability to operate far beyond the local area whenever required.
Looking Ahead to Ongoing Service
While the evening reflected heavily on the past, speakers also pointed forward to the growing challenges facing fire and emergency management. Climate pressure, population growth and more severe weather were raised as realities the brigade is already preparing for.
Britton reaffirmed their commitment to their guiding purpose. They said the brigade remains ready to protect and provide in the years ahead. They also encouraged new volunteers to apply through the NSW RFS website. The brigade is expanding its capacity for future community protection.
Published 22-October-2025
