Bushfires: ‘Ripper bloke’ Bill Slade was his family’s rock

Firefighter Bill Slade, one of five Victorians to have died in a horror bushfire season, was farewelled by family and friends on Wednesday.

Family members in tears at the funeral of veteran firefighter Bill Slade at the State Coal Mine in Wonthaggi, Victoria. Picture: AAP

Veteran firefighter and “ripper bloke” Bill Slade, one of five Victorians to have died in a horror bushfire season, was farewelled by family and friends at his funeral in Wonthaggi on Wednesday.

Hundreds paid their respects to the “loving husband and doting father” at the State Coal Mine, including Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews and Opposition Leader Michael O’Brien.

Slade, 60, was killed by a falling tree at Anglers Rest, near Omeo in East Gippsland, while working with a forest fire management taskforce on January 11.

Celebrant Andrew Henley said Slade had fought fires during Ash Wednesday and Black Saturday, and “died a hero” in East Gippsland: “He was a ripper bloke who loved his wife and kids. He was loyal, strong, dedicated and always thinking of others.”

Bill Slade.

Wife Carol said she was “heartbroken and sad” her beloved husband’s life had been cut short.

“We made a great team, I will miss the great times we had yet to come,” a relative said on her behalf. “You were always so proud of us and worked so hard to make our lives so happy.”

Son Ethan said his dad, who they dubbed “Bushfire Bill” was the family’s rock, while his daughter Steph thanked her father “for showing us the importance of loving your job”.

“I hope to follow in your footsteps,” she said.

Born and bred in Wonthaggi, Slade was the eldest of five children and grew up on his parents dairy farm at Archies Creek.

Mr Slade had received his 40-year service recognition only two months before his death. The death toll this fire season is 29.