We write in reference to the article published in your edition dated Tuesday, April 8 2025, which included several statements concerning the Deniliquin Rural Fire Brigade.
The statement that our members are "on strike" is factually incorrect.
The Deniliquin Rural Fire Brigade has not, at any point, withdrawn its service.
Our members remain operational and continue to support the local community.
Furthermore, there are no disputes between the Deniliquin Brigade members and the Mid Murray Zone staff. Any implication otherwise is inaccurate.
Comments from Mr Jon Russell, president of the Volunteer Fire Fighters Association, were presented in a manner that may suggest he was speaking on behalf of our brigade. This is incorrect.
Mr Russell does not represent the Deniliquin Brigade and has not had contact with us. He does not hold any authority to speak on our behalf.
Neither the editors of the Pastoral Times nor the local Member of Parliament, Mrs Helen Dalton, sought clarification from the Deniliquin Brigade prior to publication.
This has led to the dissemination of inaccurate information and has impacted the perception of our volunteers.
We request that future reporting involving the Deniliquin Rural Fire Brigade be based on direct and verified communication with the brigade to ensure accuracy.
We also request that a correction be issued to address the inaccuracies identified above.
Yours etc.
Executive and members
Deniliquin Rural Fire Brigade
21°C