A local club has nothing but praise for the work of local firefighters that have reduced the fuel load around Beverley, and has rewarded the officers for their efforts.
The Beverley Naturalists Club held a barbecue last week, to thank the officers for their extensive mitigation work at the Brooking Street Reserve.
Beverley Naturalists club president Phyllis Facey said the land is an important area for the community, home to native flora and fauna and Shire walking trails.
“There are many species of orchids, wildflowers and birds,” she said.
Ms Facey said the mitigation program that was done at the park earlier in the year helped to reduce the risk of fire in the area.
“This program is fabulous as it recognises extreme fire risk properties, works with the people who have the risk and empowers us to reduce the risks,” she said.
“We are very happy because the biodiversity in this reserve is intact and unharmed – and we have the buffer zone that will protect lives and homes in the event of a fire.”
Department of Fire and Rescue Services superintendent Mark Bowen helped Ms Facey present the awards on the day.
Certificates were presented to John Hansen, Tyron McMahon, Troy Granville, Aaron Kain, Greg Manzie, Kia Keremeta and Brendan and Mark Lloyd.
The Shire of Beverley was also recognised. York chief executive officer Paul Martin was in attendance on the day.
Ms Facey said a previous event was held on November 4, where 35 people attended from Toodyay, Perth, York and Beverley.
She said one fire brigade had to leave due to a fire, so the another event was held to hand out the awards.