Portland CFA volunteer Garry Mallen dies while fighting suspicious blaze

A veteran CFA firefighter has tragically died while fighting a suspicious shed fire at a property in Victoria’s southwest.

Garry Mallen served as a volunteer for the CFA for 37 years prior to his tragic death. Photo: CFA

A volunteer firefighter has tragically died while battling a suspicious shed fire at a property in Victoria’s southwest.

Country Fire Authority lieutenant Garry Mallen, 66, was on scene attempting to put out the blaze at a Short St, Portland property when it is believed he collapsed and died.

While Victoria Police suspect no foul play was involved in Mr Mallen’s death, detectives from the Arson and Explosives Squad are investigating the “series of suspicious” blazes started within just two hours.

“Investigators are currently treating the fires as linked and would like to speak to anyone who saw any suspicious behaviour in the vicinity of the fires to come forward,” a Victoria Police statement read.

“Any witnesses, anyone with CCTV/dash cam footage or information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers.”

Emergency services were first alerted to a bin fire at the corner of Percy St and Gawler St at about 5.50am.

Less than an hour later, a shrub was allegedly set alight on top of a bollard at Cape Nelson Rd and police responded to a garage fire on Camira St about 7am.

Locals are said to have assisted in attempting to put out the garage fire before firefighters arrived on scene and extinguished the blaze.

Garry Mallen and his wife Glenda. Picture: Facebook

The building remained relatively intact, only sustaining some damage to the roof.

Mr Mallen was on scene at the final of the four suspicious fires at about 7.38am, where a shed and toilet room were engulfed by flames.

The 66-year-old collapsed at the scene, with police confirming he suffered a medical episode while attempting to put out the fire.

Brigade colleagues and Fire Rescue Victoria members tried to assist him and paramedics were able to administer CPR to Mr Mallen, but sadly he was unable to be revived.

Mr Mallen was a well-recognised member of the CFA community, awarded for 30 years of service in 2017 as well as holding the position of captain at the Portland Fire Brigade for six years.

Fire Brigades around Victoria have taken to social media to share their condolences for Mr Mallen’s family.

“Rest now Garry, your shift is over,” Badger Creek Fire Brigade shared on their Facebook page.

Portland Fire Brigade volunteer Garry Mallen (right) died on the job.

“Condolences to the firey and members of the CFA and family,” another comment read.

“It’s a hard time when you volunteer your time and services to pass away on scene.”

The CFA released a statement saying the organisation was now in mourning following the loss of one of their own, sending their sympathies to the family of the long serving volunteer firefighter.

“Our deepest sympathies go out to the member’s family, friends and colleagues at the Portland Brigade – the CFA family grieves with them today,” the statement read.

Family and members of his brigade, and those who knew the veteran within the CFA, are being supported by the wellbeing team.

Mr Mallen has been remembered for his dedicated service to the Portland Brigade as a captain, and for his most recent role as lieutenant.

“Those who knew him and worked alongside him speak of his leadership, experience and most importantly his support and willingness to mentor others through their own leadership journey,” the statement continued.

“Our hearts are heavy today as we acknowledge Garry’s service supporting and protecting his community for over 30 years.”

Investigators believe the four fires are linked and are appealing to anyone in the area to share information regarding any suspicious behaviour seen within the vicinity of the fires.

A report will be prepared for the coroner.