The “Bush Fire Brigade” as it often been known, was a huge part of Donald’s life in Sydney since moving from Canberra in 1978.
His passing has impacted the brigade.
Update: On Saturday, October 27, there was a flag raising ceremony held at the shed.
Nic Lyons, Captain, offered these words to the volunteers.
Vale – Don Burnett
Hi all,
It is with great sadness I write to advise you that one of our long-standing and Life members Don Burnett passed away earlier today. Don suffered a major heart attack last Thursday from which he could not recover.
Don has been an outstanding member of Ku-ring-gai Bush Fire Brigade since he joined in January 1980. He contributed on many levels as an active firefighter, President, Secretary, Deputy Captain, Training Officer, Health and Safety Officer and RFSA Delegate. During his time with the brigade Don attended many incidents both locally and elsewhere and was involved in many, if not all, of the campaign fires that the brigade was deployed to. He participated frequently in Training, Community Engagement and Maintenance activities and indeed was responsible for the construction of many things around the station like the shadow boards in the trucks, the wooden benches in front of our lockers and the original hose washer which sits in the historic equipment cabinet. Don was also an active social member and would often attend Friday night drinks and a meal afterwards and despite hanging up his boots as an active firefighter two years ago still remained very engaged with the brigade at Community Engagement events as well as at our regular meetings. Don was also a member of Pearl Beach Brigade since 1996.
During his time with the RFS, Don was awarded the Long Service Medal with 20 and 30 year clasps and the National Medal with First Clasp recognising the amazing contribution Don has made to the service and the community.
Don was a mentor, colleague and friend of many in the brigade and he will be sorely missed. Funeral arrangements are being made possibly for mid next week and the family would like the brigade involved as it was such a big part of Don’s life. I will advise you of details once I have them to hand.
In the meantime our heartfelt sympathies and thoughts are with Don’s wife Sue, his son (and fellow Ku-ring-gai member) James and the rest of the Burnett Family.
Regards,
NicNic Lyons | Captain | Ku-ring-gai Bush Fire Brigade
NSW RURAL FIRE SERVICE
7 Esk Street WAHROONGA NSW 2076
PREPARE. ACT. SURVIVE.