General News
18 November, 2025
Horsham CFA celebrates 150 years
Horsham’s CFA celebrated 150 years of service to its community at an open day on Sunday, November 16, with displays of vintage fire engines, a history panel, activities, and demonstrations.
History Committee member and former Captain John Davies said the day was extremely successful, with a steady stream of people throughout the day, including both current and past members.
"People began arriving even before we were fully set up, which showed a keen level of interest from the community," he said.
"We also had to go for more sausages, which was another clear indication of the great number of people who came along."
Mr Davies said former members were particularly interested in the history display and the changes in the vehicles and equipment during the past 150 years.
"The Horsham CFA began as a way to protect property by the founding fathers, but has now progressed to protecting life and property," he said.
The Horsham CFA has 85 members, of whom approximately 40 are regular responders.
"Of the 40 responders, the majority have completed high-level training to assist and support our Ambulance Services in the joint initiative between the CFA and Ambulance Victoria (FMR) launched earlier this year.
"CFA brigades and Ambulance Victoria are dispatched simultaneously to cardiac arrests now, and a quicker response by the closest team can be lifesaving," he said.
"We are proud to be part of this important initiative."
Among the crowd on Sunday were many excited children who climbed aboard the fire trucks, tried their hand at using the hoses, and used the CFA radios.
They took part in the Horsham SES and Park Fire and Rescue demonstrations and learned CPR with Vic Ambulance.
On display was a CFA-owned 1958 Austin with a Front Mounted Pump and a 101-year-old Garford owned by Ray Carmen.
Brigade Captain Marc Ampt said he was deeply proud to lead a brigade with such a rich history.
“It’s a privilege to follow in the footsteps of so many inspiring leaders and members who have shaped this brigade,” he said.
“Being part of the Horsham and wider Wimmera communities for 150 years is significant for our volunteers.
“Without the dedication of our members who bring a variety of skills and life experiences, we wouldn’t be in such a strong position today.”
After such a successful celebration, organisers are hoping more members of the community will be encouraged to join.
"Even if one person was inspired to join, we'll be happy,' said Mr Davies.
The members’ dinner, for current and former members and their partners, was held on Saturday, November 15, with a full house at the Horsham Town Hall to celebrate the achievement of 150 years of a totally volunteer-run CFA.
Continuing the celebrations, a torchlight procession through the streets of the CBD will follow the competition championships on Saturday, November 29, at the B.J. Reither running track in Park Drive, from 1pm, where firefighters and juniors will compete in events of speed and skill, involving both water-based and non-water-based activities.
The torchlight procession of volunteer firefighters will travel along Pynsent, Firebrace, and Hamilton Streets, commencing at dusk, at about 8.30pm.
- More picture on PAGE 6.