Lake Cathie Rural Fire Brigade captain Chris Brown thanks the community for its vital support in tough times

Mr Brown was one of many volunteer firefighters who battled blazes across the region in late 2019 in one of the worst bushfire seasons to date.

He joined the brigade in 2002 and has been captain for three years.

"This summer we have only had a couple of calls a month, but last summer we had thousands of call outs," he said.

"In November last year we had fires spotting over the Ghost Road near Lake Cathie. We were trying to protect it from going into Queens Lake Nature Reserve, that was pretty hectic.

"It's been nothing like that this year because we had a lot of rain earlier in the season. Despite gaining 25 new members from last year it has been a bit of a struggle.

"We had all this momentum building and the community was behind us and then we had COVID and couldn't go to the station for three months, except for call outs."

Mr Brown said the brigade had begun using Zoom meetings and designated groups to stay in touch and maintain the station this year.

Mr Brown said he was looking forward to a more relaxed Christmas this year.

"We'd just like to wish everyone merry Christmas and to stay safe and have a joyous new year," he said.

"Even though there's a little bit of rain, people should not be complacent in protecting your house.

"Thanks for everybody supporting us for the last 12 months. We've had some fantastic donations from members of the public, kids and schools.

"It just brings a tear to my eye every time someone walks into our station to donate. The outpouring of gratitude towards us was just unbelievable and as I said they continue to come in we continue to receive donations."

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