Beginning in 1966, both Fraser Bunting (left) and Ian "Geordie" Ross, and their families, dedicated more than 50 years to serving the community as volunteer firefighters.
"You saw more fires up until the early 1980s," Mr Bunting said.
"South Otago Engineering and Finegand both had some really big ones.
Mr Ross recalled the change of crews to "first responders" who attended more traffic accidents, falls and heart attacks.
"Think about all the people living in rural locations, especially the elderly, who are likely to report a mishap or a health issue ...
"These volunteers are saving more lives than ever."
Ian and Fraser were happy to accept this week’s prize on behalf of first responders and keep it handy for the next station social.
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