MFB Firecrisis campaign stories                                                               February 17, 2009.

As a mark of respect for the victims of the Victorian bushfires and our firefighters who have  worked so hard to protect them and defend their property, the United Firefighters Union (UFU) will not be publishing stories about Metropolitan fire Brigade (MFB) management waste and incompetence for the time being.  The campaign will resume soon.

Thank you firies
The United Firefighters Union's Victoria Branch (UFU) has created a new website to enable the public to pass on their thanks to the state's firefighters who worked so hard to protect those threatened by the states recent bushfires.

Never before in Australian history have we been confronted with such destruction at the hands of fire. While we mourn the terrible effects of this catastrophe, it’s important to remember those who risked their lives to help others.

UFU State Secretary Peter Marshall says all Victorians appreciate the efforts of the State’s professional firefighters and volunteers, as well as other emergency services and operational support workers. “This website allows the general public to send a morale-boosting message, and we’ll make sure that these messages reach the crews at the fire front,” says Peter Marshall. “With the CFA focused on operational issues, the United Firefighters Union has taken this initiative – both for the firefighters, and to allow a voice to grateful Victorians."

At Thank You Firies, you can send a message of support to the firefighters who battled the blazes and who remain ready to go to the fire front again, should - or when - the need arises.

Our heroic firefighters
The United Firefighters Union wishes to express the deepest gratitude to all the firefighters who have fought so bravely. They worked tirelessly for days in trying and dangerous conditions. As the world around them went up in smoke, they stood tall. They are truly heroes.

The UFU is proud of the vital work of our members, Victoria's professional firefighters, and the efforts of the volunteers, emergency workers and support services people who have worked tirelessly for our protection and safety during this period of crisis. “Looking after the welfare of firefighters has been our mission for nearly 100 years," says Peter Marshall. "Internet messages of thanks are a modern way of boosting morale at an extraordinary time in this state’s - and the nation’s - history.”

All messages posted on the Thank You Firies website will be passed on to crews at the firefronts.