Tamahere Community To Be Publicly Thanked By Fire Service

The Governor-General will host a special community commemoration tomorrow to publicly acknowledge all those in the Tamahere and Hamilton communities who helped rescue and care for the firefighters injured in the Icepak Coolstore explosion.

Hamilton firefighter Derek Lovell was killed and seven others were seriously hurt when leaked gas ignited while they were investigating an automatic fire alarm on 5 April 2008.

Dozens of people attending a nearby school gala and a wedding immediately rushed to help while many others provided ongoing care and support in the days and months that followed.

National Commander Mike Hall says the injured firefighters are now all back at work (although two remain on light duties) and the time was right for the public’s efforts to be commemorated.

"Many people showed extraordinary courage in helping the firefighters to safety and providing first aid and comfort. We wanted to find a way to make sure everyone involved at the time, and later, was properly acknowledged and aware they have the gratitude of the New Zealand Fire Service. So, with the support of the Tamahere community, the Governor-General consented to hold this special community commemoration," he said.

The Governor-General Hon Sir Anand Satyanand will unveil a plaque outside the Tamahere Community Centre. It stands near a tree that has been planted for the occasion by members of the Tamahere community to mark the courage shown by all those involved on 5 April 2008.

ENDS

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