Grateful for the work of firefighters, Waitaki Mayor Gary Kircher (left) and Mackenzie Mayor Graham Smith thank the Twizel Volunteer Fire Brigade’s Ian Gardiner (second from right) and Omarama Volunteer Fire Brigade’s Jack Zorab at a Lake Ohau Village event to mark a year since fire devastated the town. PHOTO: SUPPLIED
On Sunday, more than 50 people gathered in the village as Waitaki Mayor Gary Kircher presented a ‘‘thank you message’’ and a gift of appreciation to the Omarama, Otematata and Twizel volunteer fire brigades.
Though Otematata representatives were not in attendance, Mr Kircher said it was an opportunity to acknowledge the work local fire brigades had done at the time of the fire and since.
It was also a good chance to catch up with those affected by the fire and hear the different tales of life while rebuilding, he said.
Also in attendance were Mackenzie Mayor Graham Smith and emergency management assistance team member Phil Mackay, who activated the welfare services in response to the fire.
