Historical information

Ernest W (Bon) Barrie, 1909 – 1985

Melton Fire Brigade (and predecessor Bush Fire Brigade)
Apparatus Officer, 1945 - 1953
Captain, 1951 - 1965

Mt Cotterill Fire Brigades’ Group

Elected Group Officer, on the formation of the Group, 1967.
As Group Communications Officer he operated the VL3 LY base radio station from home on a 24 hour basis for fire brigades of Melton, Rockbank, Sydenham, Diggers Rest, Toolern Vale, Truganina and Werribee.
With his brother Edgar, he built the first Melton Fire Truck. It was housed on the family property until a fire station was constructed in the Melton township.
Recipient of the Queens Medal, 1979

Recognised for 44 years of service on the Melton Fire Brigade Memorial Wall Plaque, dedicated May 2013

Mt Cotterell Fire Brigades G H Q and aerial was erected at No 17
-
19 First Avenue in
1974 at the home of Edna and Bon Barrie. Previously the Mt Cotterell Group VL3LY
communication headquarters occupied their h
ome in Ferris road at its inception in
1967.

The First Avenue headquarters and map room, with radio equipment was also housed
at the residence. It was operated with an additional cable connection to Fireman
Wayne Sullivan (Deputy C/O) who resided at the
rear in Kurrajong Cr.

Physical description

Section of the Melton Fire Brigade Memorial wall with brigade members who have passed away while as members.