Released 20/02/2020
ACT Rural Fire Service (ACTRFS) Chief Officer Joe Murphy will hang up his firefighters’ helmet after three decades of service to the Canberra Community in emergency services, including more than 21 years with ACT Fire & Rescue (ACTF&R).
Mr Murphy’s 33 year career with the ACT Emergency Services Agency (ESA) started by chance when he signed up as a SES volunteer with the South Unit (Woden) in 1987.
Minister for Police and Emergency Services Mick Gentleman joined ESA Commissioner Georgeina Whelan in thanking Mr Murphy for his outstanding service to the Canberra community.
“Joe Murphy has led the ACTRFS for the last four years and made an outstanding contribution to lifting the capability and professional standards of the service,” Mr Gentleman said.
“The critical role played by ACTRFS in keeping Canberrans safe during the devastating Orroral Valley Fires recently is a testimony to Joe’s leadership.
“During the Orroral Valley Fires, he was frequently out on the fire ground checking on the well-being of his crew and leading community meetings.
“Joe has been instrumental in ACTRFS progress over the last four years in recruitment, membership, training, inclusion and accessibility.
“He will be remembered for many firsts including creating the original ACTF&R Education program that was introduced to ACT schools, which earned him a community protection medal.”
Mr Murphy is looking forward to starting a new chapter in his life and being able to spend more time with his partner and two adult children.
“The ESA is a fantastic organisation that I have had the privilege to work with. I would like to thank the many dedicated volunteers and staff who work all year to keep our community safe,” Mr Murphy said.
“This organisation has been a huge part of my life and I hope to stay in touch with the many friends I have made over the years,” he said.
Mr Murphy’s retirement has been strategically timed, following a commitment made to the ESA Commissioner to see out the remainder of the 2019/20 bushfire season.
Mr Murphy will retire on 10 April 2020 and an acting Chief Officer will be appointed in the interim until a recruitment process is completed to permanently fill the role.
- Statement ends -
Mick Gentleman, MLA | Media Releases