Mr PASIN (Barker) (13:32): It has been a devastating start to summer. Unprecedented bushfires across the country have once again put in the spotlight the importance and value of volunteer firefighters. Our firefighting volunteers make up such an important part of so many regional communities across the country. South Australia has a long and proud history of volunteer firefighting. Some time ago a group of dedicated volunteers in the community of Naracoorte, in my electorate, led by Rex Hall, undertook to establish a museum. After many years of planning, including a business case funded by our government via the Building Better Regions Fund in 2017, the museum will officially open this Sunday, on the anniversary of the devastating Ash Wednesday bushfires. The museum specifically aims to research, record, conserve and promote the history and equipment of South Australia’s volunteer fire service. In a way it’s also a reminder to all volunteer firefighters, past and present, that we appreciate their dedication and hard work in often dangerous, life-threatening conditions, leaving their own families, homes and sometimes communities to help others. There has never been a better time to pay tribute to our volunteer firefighters, and I’m extremely proud that our government has helped to fund the SA Volunteer Fire Fighters museum in Naracoorte. A huge congratulations to Rex Hall and his team, who were behind the planning and construction of the museum. It’s a brilliant initiative and an extremely worthy cause.
