03/11/2025
Vale Chief Superintendent Craig Geddes
It is with a heavy heart that we inform you of the sad passing of Chief Superintendent Craig Geddes last night.
From the moment he joined the Beacon Hill Brigade on 1 February 1980, Craig’s dedication to the RFS never wavered, and he maintained a proud connection to the brigade throughout his life.
Craig became a staff member in September 1994 as the Fire Control Officer at Warringah Council, before being appointed District Manager of Warringah Pittwater in 2001 and later District Manager of Northern Beaches in 2016.
Deeply respected by both volunteers and staff, Craig was known as a practical and grounded leader who always placed people and community at the heart of his work.
Throughout his distinguished career, Craig also held several key temporary assignments including Manager Region East, Manager Operational Doctrine and Standards and Regional Services Manager, Business and Operations.
As a Level 3 Incident Controller, he played an instrumental role in leading the Service’s response to many major fire events, including the 1994/95, 1997/98, 2000/01, 2013/14 and 2019/20 Black Summer fires.
In his most recent role as Manager, Operational Response, Craig made a significant contribution to modernising the Service through the implementation of Centralised Dispatch and Computer Aided Dispatch systems across all Districts. These initiatives have transformed how the RFS operates, enhancing coordination, communication and response.
Craig also served as a Deputy State Operations Controller and State Duty Operations Officer, where his calm leadership and deep operational expertise guided the Service through complex statewide incidents.
Despite personal tragedy, Craig demonstrated unwavering commitment to the Service and its members. His exceptional work ethic, compassion and willingness to mentor others earned him the respect and admiration of all who worked with him. The State Operations Centre will not be the same without Craig’s presence, leadership and humour.
Craig’s service to the NSW Rural Fire Service and to the people of NSW spanned more than 45 years. He leaves a legacy of professionalism, integrity and dedication that will long be remembered.
Craig’s passing will be deeply felt across the RFS community. During this time, it is important that we look after one another and I remind everyone that support services are available for anyone who may need them.
Our thoughts are with Craig’s sons, Luke and Matthew, and his family, friends and colleagues during this difficult time.
The details of the funeral will be circulated once they are known.
