Clevedon Volunteer Fire Brigade Marks 50 Years of Service
The Clevedon Volunteer Fire Brigade proudly celebrated its 50th anniversary on 9 May 2026 with a special gathering at The Clevedon Hall, bringing together the people who have helped shape the Brigade’s story over the past five decades.
Established in late 1975, the Brigade has stood alongside the Clevedon community through emergencies, challenges, and everyday acts of service. Over the years, generations of volunteers have given their time, skills, and dedication to help keep local families, homes, and businesses safe.
The anniversary celebration welcomed current and former brigade members, their families, supporters, sponsors, and dignitaries from Fire and Emergency New Zealand (FENZ) including Ron Devlan (Region Manager – Te Hiku) and Geoff Purcell (District Manager – Counties Manukau), and the United Fire Brigades’ Association (UFBA) including Dale Lindsay (Vice President) and Ricky Hodge (Auckland Provisional Fire Brigades Association).
The evening was an opportunity not only to celebrate 50 years of service but also to honour the people whose commitment has helped make the Brigade such an important part of Clevedon life. It was a meaningful occasion to recognise current operational members, as well as two outstanding individuals whose service has left a lasting mark on both the Brigade and the wider community.
Ron Devlin (Region Manager - Te Hiku, FENZ) presenting 50 Year Sevice Medal and Plaque to Bob O’Flaherty (Chief Fire Officer, Clevedon)
A 50 Year Service Medal was presented to Chief Fire Officer Bob O’Flaherty, a former Station Officer and professional firefighter, recognising an extraordinary halfcentury of service and leadership to both FENZ and the Clevedon community. A 25 Year Gold Star was also awarded to Firefighter James Brookman in recognition of his long-standing dedication to the Brigade and his unwavering commitment to the annual Firefighter Sky Tower Challenge, raising funds and awareness in support of Blood Cancer New Zealand.
The 50 Year Service Medal and 25 Year Gold Star are among the highest honours awarded across professional and volunteer fire brigades. The Clevedon Volunteer Fire Brigade is immensely proud of Bob and James for their commitment and service to the community. Their dedication reflects the generous spirit that has defined the Brigade throughout its 50-year history.
Other awards presented during the evening included:
2026 Attendance Award – Craig Jones
2026 Most Improved Firefighter – Zane Hamilton
2026 Firefighter of the Year – Charlotte Maumea
Annual service medals were also presented to
Natalie Black (3yrs); Craig Jones (7yrs);
Sebestian Jones (7yrs); Bruce Campbell (11yrs);
Gail Powell (19yrs); Bruce Jones (43yrs);
Michelle De Graaf (14yrs Long Service Good Conduct);
Leighton Balemi (21yrs Long Service Good Conduct);
Bob O’Flaherty (49yrs Long Service Good Conduct).
Ron Devlin (Region Manager - Te Hiku, FENZ), James Brookman (Firefighter, Clevedon) and Geoff Purcell ( District Manager - Counties Manukau, FENZ)
The evening featured a formal dinner, an awards ceremony, and live music, creating a warm and memorable occasion for everyone who attended. It provided a wonderful opportunity to reconnect, reflect on shared experiences, and celebrate together.
The Brigade would like to extend its heartfelt thanks to Auckland Polo, The Clevedon Association, and The Clevedon Farmers Market, for their continued support of both the Brigade and this special event. Their generosity is a valued reminder of the strong connection between the Brigade and the wider community it serves.
The 50th anniversary was a heartfelt celebration of service, friendship, and community spirit—a tribute to everyone who has been part of the Clevedon Volunteer Fire Brigade’s journey and a reminder of the vital role it continues to play in the lives of local people.
As the Brigade looks to the future, it remains committed to serving the Clevedon community with the same dedication, professionalism, and volunteer spirit that have defined its first 50 years.
Find out more about the Clevedon Volunteer Fire Brigade here.
