Six CFA volunteer firefighters stood side-by-side on centre court at Rod Laver Arena for the Men's Australian Open Final on Sunday night and were met with a loud applause as they represented thousands of men and women across the nation continuing to battle the devastating bushfires.
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District 12 members Chris Buzzard, Yorin Miller, Shanon Frith and District 15 members Stewart Soulsby and Billy Smith, as well as District 16 member Rod McErvale donned their wildfire turnout gear during the rendition of the national anthem and were thanked by the crowd during pre-match formalities.
The firefighters also formed a guard of honour outside the player's tunnel as the men's tennis finalists, Novak Djokovic and Dominic Thiem took to the court ahead of the Championship match.
Tallarook Fire Brigade firefighter Chris Buzzard, who had previously been deployed to NSW and was involved in firefighting in the north-east this fire season, said the reception they received from the crowd was "unbelievable".
"It was such a heartfelt moment, it was beyond belief to be honest," Mr Buzzard said.
"I think a few of us were close to tears.
"During my time on the fireground I saw some devastating areas of burnt land and destruction caused by the fires. It's been an eye-opener and we're doing what we can to help.
"The public support of firefighters across the country has been phenomenal. To have the entire crowd on their feet standing was great and something I'll remember for the rest of my life."
Third Deputy Group Officer of Ballan Group Billy Smith said brigades that support his local community have responded to an increased number of call-outs this year and the recognition by the wider community for their efforts was "very moving".
"Novak Djokovic made the time to come out before the match and shake our hands, which I thought was an amazing gesture," Mr Smith said.
"CFA was formed to protect the lives and property of those in the local community and it's been overwhelming to receive such great support in return."
Following on from Tennis Australia's Rally for Relief event on 15 January, donations kept rolling in throughout the duration of the Australian Open, with the current tally sitting at $5,818,861 as part of the Aces for Bushfire Relief program.
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