General News
29 May, 2026
Decades of service celebrated
A group of selfless individuals were recently recognised for their service to the Warracknabeal Fire Brigade Auxiliary.
From catering and raffles to emergency support and Good Friday Appeal fundraising, members were recognised for a myriad of major milestones.
Gwen Steinmeyer was acknowledged for 65 years of dedication to the auxiliary, as it was noted that she has been exceptionally active throughout her time, not only supporting her husband Bill with the Brigade and Competition teams but also assisting with catering and other tasks required at demos.
As part of the auxiliary catering group, Gwen has assisted the team in countless functions, including afternoon teas, birthdays, dinners and weddings, and has always been happy to give advice when needed.
Serving as auxiliary treasurer for 28 years, from 1982 until 2010, Gwen was a passionate carpet bowler who was often part of the winning team during the Wednesday competitions at the old station.
An auxiliary life member, Gwen has also been a long-time supporter of the Good Friday Appeal, whether that meant selling raffle tickets or bringing one of her cakes to the afternoon tea on appeal day.
Even more impressive has been the fact that Gwen has rarely been an apology for events or meetings over the past 65 years.
Another member to be recognised was Leora Duffield for her 60 years of service.
Transferring to the Warracknabeal Auxiliary in 1983 after 16 years with the Horsham Auxiliary, like Gwen, Leora has also been an active member of the auxiliary.
During her time at Warracknabeal, she served as president from 2007-2008, senior vice-president from 2005-2006, and as a committee member from 2009-2013 and again from 2019-2021.
A life member, Leora was also active in supporting the catering and could also often be spotted rugged up, selling raffle tickets.
Whether it was for the Brigade or the Good Friday Appeal, she never hesitated to put her hand up to help out.
As an invaluable support to her husband, Ray, when he was the brigade's comms officer, Leora was renowned for her efficiency and could be called upon during emergencies to support the brigade in any way she could.
After joining the auxiliary in 1981, Pam Zanker was also acknowledged for her 45 years of dedication.
Pam has been an invaluable part of both the auxiliary and the brigade, not least as the longtime photographer and keeper of records.
Serving as auxiliary president from 2009 -2014, senior vice president from 2007-2008, and junior vice president in 2006, Pam was also a valuable part of the Ladies Auxiliary catering team, often assisting with functions.
Having joined the Warracknabeal Auxiliary in 1990, not long after marrying Shorty, one may think Paula Winsall married the Brigade itself, with the last name being synonymous with the brigade.
A valued life member and member in her own right, Paula was recognised for 35 years of service.
After holding many auxiliary positions over the years, Paula has gained a reputation for always wanting to help out as necessary and always with a big smile.
An invaluable support during the auxiliary’s 80th anniversary in 2010, Paula spent weeks collating information and photos, which was appreciated greatly.
Also a part of the clan of Winsall's, Donna Winsall was recognised for 25 years of service.
Donna is one of the quieter members but is an incredibly loved and valued part of the auxiliary, whose kindness and personality shine.
Acknowledged for and celebrating 20 years of service was Neil Adams, who has been an active member for the past 20 years.
From collecting donations as part of the Good Friday Appeal to maintaining the grounds at the station or ensuring that our members never go thirsty, Neil can be relied upon to lend a hand when and where it’s needed, including, up until he handed the reins over last year, donning the big red suit and bringing joy to children during the annual Christmas party and lolly run.
Finally, a number of members were recognised for 15 years of service, including Lorraine Sleep, Mel Jefferies, Tennille Jonasson and Tim Jefferies, while Cameron Whelan received recognition for 10 years of service.