Firefighter, 79, keeps family torch burning through three generations
Trevor Haines, his son Daniel, and grandson Oscar continue a family tradition in the Rural Fire Service spanning over 60 years.
Trevor Haines joined the Rural Fire Service at 16 and has never left. Now 79, he oversees six brigades as group captain for Lockhart Shire in NSW.
Daniel Haines, 42, is captain of Munyabla brigade and has served 26 years. Oscar, 15, already shows keen interest in joining.
When Trevor started, firefighters had no protective gear, no formal training, and drove an old converted petrol truck that would vaporise in heat. Today the service is better equipped, but finding young volunteers in rural areas is harder, many move to cities for work or university.
Haines says his role stretches beyond his shire, helping neighbouring areas. "That's the country spirit," he said.
"That's what we do to help each other." Despite more than six decades on the job, he plays down his part: "I'm only a spoke in the wheel."
- 79
- Trevor Haines age
- More than 60
- Years of service
- 26 years
- Daniel Haines service
- Six
- Brigades overseen
Why it mattersRural brigades struggle to recruit younger members; stories like this highlight the deep community commitment needed to keep volunteer services strong.
AustraliaRural NSW firefighting depends on volunteers like the Haines family; recruitment remains a challenge across regional brigades.
Corroborated bydailyadvertiser.com.au
✓ Claims checked against the source. checked 2 h ago
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