I had the pleasure of representing our local Fairfield and Liverpool Radio Station 2GLF 89.3 FM at the opening ceremony of our brand new Fire Station on Cartwright Avenue in Busby opposite the Miller Central Shopping Centre.

With the Gandangara Elders welcoming the station with a traditional smoking ceremony and Busby West Primary School singing our national anthem, it was a significant moment in history for the community of 2168.

The new Busby Fire Station will provide much faster response times for over 4,500 households in the immediate 2168 area who previously have relied on Bonyrigg Heights, Cabramatta, Horningsea Park and Moorebank since the old Busby Fire Station closed suddenly in February 2023.

The foundations of any community are the pillars of strength that stand behind it, and the Busby local Fire Station is that pillar of strength for the people of 2168. Not just to put out fires and assist in rescues, but importantly to help educate our community about Fire Safety and Trust.

Attending today was a very personal moment for me and my family and it was great to see so many in attendance including The Hon Jihad Dib MP Minister of Emergency Services and our very own Local Member Ms Charishma Kaliyanda.

The people of 2168 can sleep a little easier tonight; one pillar has been restored and the foundation is very strong. I hope that when we see our local firefighters out and about, we recognise them for their extraordinary contribution to our great City.

How Fire Impacts Family

Last year I represented a family that lost their Father in a house fire. I posted this message with his son’s blessing, and I thought today it would be fitting to share it again.

Letting Go is Hard (July 2023)

The story of this property is one of great tragedy and emotion for one of our local families in The Valley. Just over 12 months ago the owner of this property sadly perished in a devastating house fire that engulfed the home.

He was a much loved member of our community and everyone in the street that I have met in the last 3 weeks had a story about how he had helped them or waved hello or mowed their lawn. He loved a beer and a cheeky bet or two and always kept a close eye on the street.

Tonight on behalf of the Son and Daughter we auctioned the property.

During the auction it became very clear that we we auctioning a lot more than just a property.

Both shared stories of their own childhood memories and how all of the best memories of their Father were in moments that revolved around the home that we were about to sell.

Selling the family home is sometimes much, much more than a price. While the memories go with you when you leave, the place you have called home your whole life is one day not called home anymore.

Saying goodbye tonight for this lovely family was especially difficult. Not being able to say goodbye leaves an emptyness in those who remain behind.

While glad we got the job done, it was quite hard to watch them go through the emotions of letting it go tonight.

Moral of the tale?……I am not sure on this one…Be prepared emotionally that letting go is hard sometimes….and most certainly….Hug Dad’s More.

Have a great week everyone.

BJ