The Chief Officer of ACT Fire & Rescue (ACTF&R), Mark Brown has retired after a career spanning almost 40 years as a professional firefighter.
Minister for Police and Emergency Services, Mick Gentleman joined ACT Emergency Services Agency (ESA) Commissioner Georgeina Whelan to compliment Mr Brown on his dedication, progressive contributions and service to firefighters and the Canberra community.
“On behalf of the Canberra community and ACT Government, I would like to thank Mark for his contribution to our community and wish him all the best in his retirement.” Mr Gentleman said.
“Mark Brown is an amazing leader who capably stewarded ACTF&R through a period of transformational change,” he said.
“His dedication and experience were on display during the 2019-20 bushfire season where he played a vital role supporting the Commissioner.”
“[Mr Brown] led a fast and effective response to several urban fires including the Beard Fire that threatened lives and property.”
Mr Gentleman said Mr Brown drove the procurement of two new state-of-the-art firefighting trucks, new firefighting helmets and personal protective clothing to ensure ACT was the best equipped firefighting service in Australia.
He said Mr Brown had passionately advocated for greater inclusion and diversity in the ESA by breaking down barriers to Indigenous and female recruitment in the service.
Mr Gentleman said Mr Brown retired on 17 April and an acting Chief Officer would be appointed in the interim until the recruitment process was completed to permanently fill the role.
