Gisborne CFA Firefighter Ian Hay has been recognised with the prestigious Australian Fire Service Medal (AFSM) as part of the 2021 Australia Day Honours List.
Ian will receive the medal after more than 43 years of service with the Country Fire Authority (CFA).
He commenced his volunteer firefighting career in 1975 at Bullengarook Fire Brigade, before transferring to Gisborne Fire Brigade.
Ian has served as Brigade Secretary before being elected to represent the Gisborne Brigade as the Mount Macedon Group Communications Officer.
He then moved up the ranks to become Group Officer and now continues to serve as a senior firefighter, regularly attending emergency incidents.
He said he was "extremely humbled" to have received the AFSM honour.
"When I started at Bullengarook Brigade, I did not anticipate my involvement would have led me this far," Ian said.
"I have met so many amazing people over the course of my CFA journey and looking back, I am grateful for every interaction."
Ian has maintained his operational qualifications as a Level 2 Incident Controller, a Level 3 Operations Officer and as a Divisional Commander and Sector Commander.
Throughout his volunteer career, Ian has become highly respected by all levels of CFA.
CFA is grateful to Ian for his ongoing commitment to serving his community as part of his local fire brigade.
"I've formed lots of friendships across CFA. I can go anywhere in Victoria and bump into someone I have met during my time as a member.
"CFA is a family and I am happy to be a part of it."
