Chief Officer of the ACT Rural Fire Service (ACTRFS), Joe Murphy is to hang up his firefighter helmet after three decades of service to the Canberra community.
Minister for Police and Emergency Services, Mick Gentleman joined ACT Emergency Services Agency (ACT ESA) Commissioner, Georgeina Whelan last week to thank Mr Murphy for his outstanding service.
“Joe Murphy has led the ACTRFS for the last four years and made an outstanding contribution to lifting the capability and professional standards of the service,” Mr Gentleman said.
“The critical role played by ACTRFS in keeping Canberrans safe during the devastating Orroral Valley Fires recently is a testimony to Joe’s leadership,” he said.
Mr Gentleman said Mr Murphy would be remembered for many firsts during his service with ACTRFS, including his creation of the original ACTF&R Education program that was introduced into ACT schools and which earned him a community protection medal.
Mr Murphy said he was looking forward to starting a new chapter in his life and being able to spend more time with his partner and two adult children.
“The ESA is a fantastic organisation that I have had the privilege to work with,” Mr Murphy said.
“I would like to thank the many dedicated volunteers and staff who work all year to keep our community safe,” he said.
“This organisation has been a huge part of my life and I hope to stay in touch with the many friends I have made over the years.”
Mr Gentleman said Mr Murphy’s retirement has been strategically timed, following a commitment made to the ACT ESA Commissioner to see out the remainder of the 2019/20 bushfire season.
He said Mr Murphy would retire on 10 April and an acting Chief Officer would be appointed in the interim until a replacement was announced.
