Museum collection to grow

IT WAS a pretty ambitious project to fill a cavernous shed with a trove of local fire brigade history

Former Fire Commissioner, Lee Johnson (left) presents a plaque Neville McCabe. Presentation to former Millmerran and Toowoomba Fire Auxillary member, Neville McCabe, in recognition of service from 1976 to 2011. Picture: Bev Lacey

IT WAS a pretty ambitious project to fill a cavernous shed with a trove of local fire brigade history, but now the Toowoomba Fire Brigade Historical Society is looking to build a second one.

The original plan was to house a number of restored fire engines used by the Toowoomba Fire Brigade since its inception in the 1800s, but it has only grown from there.

This week the society took delivery of another special swag of artefacts provided by former fire commissioner Lee Johnson and also used the presentation as a fitting opportunity to recognise former Millmerran and Toowoomba Fire Auxiliary member, Neville McCabe, in recognition of service from 1976 to 2011.

Toowoomba Fire Brigade Historical Society president Lester Naumann said Mr Johnson came to the museum, located at the Highfields Pioneer Village, to donate some old uniforms and equipment as well as congratulate Mr McCabe on his service and present him with an award.

"Commissioner Lee Johnson, was fire commissioner for many years and retired four or five years ago," Mr Naumann said.

"He brought up a complete set of turnout uniforms to donate to the museum.

"It's coming along really well and we're about to build our second shed.

"We've got the slab down but we need more money to finish it."

People keen to support the museum can visit in person and give a donation or call Mr Naumann on 0438 769 891.

Former Fire Commissioner, Lee Johnson donates items from his career to the fire museum at Highfields. Picture: Bev Lacey

Originally published as Museum collection to grow