Since joining the Leeston Volunteer Fire Brigade in 1994, Mr Sheat has responded to a number of memorable calls.
But he said his biggest challenge to date was the Port Hills fires in 2017.
He said it was the longest campaign fire he has been involved in.
Now, the 59-year-old has been awarded a gold star to mark his 25 years of service to the brigade.
Mr Sheat said he is very proud to be a member of the Leeston brigade and Fire and Emergency NZ.
“The time has just flown by. It really doesn’t feel like it’s been 25 years,” he said.
The 2010 earthquake is another memorable call for him, he says it was one of the busier times locally.
Mr Sheat also responded to the February 22, 2011, earthquake in Christchurch.
“It was just mind-blowing to see the power of nature and the damage that series of earthquakes caused,” he said.
He said there have been a number of house fires and motor vehicle crashes that always stay with him for various reasons.
Mr Sheat works for PGG Wrightson Seeds as an arable seeds representative in the Springs-Ellesmere area.
He said he joined the brigade after being asked by a neighbour.
“They asked if I would like to join and I’d stopped playing competitive sport so it seemed like a good idea. I also had a brother in the Dunsandel brigade so it wasn’t a hard decision.”
He stayed so long because it is a rewarding organisation to be involved in.
“You are looked to provide help to people who are probably having the worst moment in their lives whether it be a medical event, motor vehicle accident or property fire. We turn up to give them the best outcome for the challenges they face.”
Mr Sheat said he plans on staying with the brigade for the foreseeable future.
“As long as I’m still able to contribute I intend to remain but it really is an organisation that requires full commitment to training and all brigade activities,” he said.
