April 9, 2024
When Kingaroy resident David Duff signed up as an auxiliary firefighter almost 34 years ago, he was given a helmet and overalls to keep him safe on the job.
By 2024, this had become specialist “turnout” gear and breathing apparatus …
These are just some of many changes that David reflected on this week after reaching the compulsory retirement age of 65.
He began his firefighting career on August 1, 1990, at Wondai Fire Station before shifting to Kingaroy about 16 years later.
David said he had lots of good memories from his years of service, especially the friendships he had made.
Tougher memories involved some of the multi-fatality traffic crashes he had attended.
“Looking after each other is so important because it can be a really tough job sometimes,” he said.
“The best thing you can teach a new firefighter is how to become an old firefighter.”
Kingaroy Station Officer Bruce Groer said David would be missed.
“He is a very caring person who often did the smaller things around the station that no one may notice but are very appreciated,” he said.
David made sure the trucks were spick and span, especially for Kingaroy’s Anzac Day parade.
His skills also stretched to the station’s social club, sizzling sausages at cook-ups and making caramel tarts.
