A look back on 2025 with the Museum of Fire President

It is with a great sense of sadness that I begin by reporting on the passing of Leslie (Liz) White on 3 September 2025. Liz was the wife of our late President and CEO, Mark White AFSM OAM. The White family’s association with the Museum dates from the Association’s beginning, and Liz’s long service to our Museum as a full-time employee was exceptional. This proud family legacy continues through Liz’s son, Cameron White, who remains a valued employee of the Museum. On behalf of the Association and the Board, I extend our sincere condolences to Cameron and the entire White family.

Vehicle display on Museum grounds for Fire and Rescue NSW Open Day, 10 May 2025.

Turning to matters of recognition within our own Association, it is with great pleasure that I report that in early 2025, our past President, Marcus Baker AFSM, was awarded Life Membership of the Association. Marcus’ long and exceptional service to the Museum began when he was appointed as one of the Fire and Rescue NSW appointees to the Board, and he went on to serve as both President and Vice President until his retirement earlier this year. During his stewardship, Marcus guided the Museum through particularly challenging periods, first during the COVID pandemic and later amid the Global Financial Crisis. On behalf of the Association as a whole, the Board in particular, and personally, I extend our heartfelt thanks to Marcus for his outstanding contribution and wish both him and his wife Susie a long and happy retirement.

The continued success of the Museum is also due in no small part to the ongoing support we receive from our partners and colleagues. The Board and Association remain deeply grateful for the assistance accorded by Commissioner Jeremy Fewtrell AFSM and Fire and Rescue NSW (FRNSW). Special mention must also be made of the invaluable support provided by the FRNSW Fleet Officers.

This spirit of collaboration has also extended beyond our immediate partners, strengthening relationships with kindred organisations. During 2025, we have been pleased to establish a warm connection between the ACT Fire Brigade Museum and our own Association. In May, I had the pleasure of being hosted in Canberra by Wayne Berry, President of the ACT Fire Brigade Museum, along with members of his Board and volunteers. Their hospitality was exceptional, and I am delighted to report that, with the assistance of Acting CEO Ben Dickson, Colin Murphy, and our volunteers, we were able to return that hospitality over a two-day visit at the end of October 2025. I also record our thanks to the Officers and Firefighters of No. 1 Station, City of Sydney ‘A’ Platoon, who warmly received Wayne Berry and his delegation. Special recognition goes to Senior Firefighter George Lloyd, a member of the Association, and Qualified Firefighter Thomas Alford, who has since applied to join, for their detailed tour and the morning tea so kindly provided by the crew.

ACT Fire Brigade Museum visiting City of Sydney Fire Station, October 2025 [Courtesy of Fire Brigade Historical Society of the ACT]

Equally encouraging has been the revitalisation of our relationship with the Historic Fire Engine Association Inc. Through the initiative of Gerard Duck and Chris Moore of the HFEA, and with the support of our CEO Belinda McMartin and Curator Ben Dickson, a trial “working bee” program between our respective associations has proven highly successful and has since been extended. This partnership has already yielded tangible results, with the commencement of the restoration of the Museum’s 1947 GMC Water Tanker, and it is hoped this collaboration will lead to the restoration of other important pieces within our collection.

Museum of Fire volunteers sending the GMC water tanker off for restoration work, 2025.

The year also brought significant changes to the Board through the appointment of new Directors. I also take this opportunity to acknowledge the contributions of former Board Directors and Officers. This diverse and experienced Board continues to provide outstanding leadership and guidance to the Association and the Museum. Equally deserving of recognition are our dedicated volunteers, whose contribution cannot be overstated. Their enthusiasm and tireless work are deeply appreciated, and it is without doubt that our Museum’s ongoing success owes much to their commitment.

Alongside our volunteers, the professionalism and dedication of our staff continue to be a source of great pride. Their enthusiasm and devotion to the Museum are unparalleled, and the Board extends its sincere thanks to them all.

It also gives me great pleasure to share that our CEO Belinda and her partner Alex recently welcomed their first child, baby Chloe. On behalf of the Board and Association, I extend our warmest congratulations to them both and wish their family every happiness.

In conclusion, I express my heartfelt thanks to my fellow Board members, our staff, and all those who contribute in supporting roles for their unwavering dedication to fulfilling the Association’s objectives. It is through their combined effort that the Museum continues to thrive and honour its proud heritage.

-Peter Stathis AFSM, Museum of Fire President