Great Lakes Catering Brigade

02/09/2026

The catering team has had a particularly busy period.
On Sunday, they provided full support for the final Crew Leader theory training session.

On Tuesday, they were activated to cater for personnel attending the Tuncurry Waste Centre Fire.
The team prepared 65 lunches, along with tea, coffee and snacks, for RFS and FRNSW members who had been working throughout the day from 6am.
They subsequently supplied 25 evening meals for the 4pm relief crews, ensuring all personnel were well supported after extended operational hours.
We extend our appreciation to all catering volunteers for their professionalism, commitment and continued service to the district.

Our catering brigade doesn’t fight fires — we fuel the firefighters who protect our community. Whether you’re a seasoned volunteer or simply curious about how you can contribute, we’d love to hear from you and welcome you into the Brigade.
👉 Join the NSW RFS: www.rfs.nsw.gov.au/volunteer/join-the-nsw-rfs
📞 Contact: Group Officer David Moore – 0488 007 704

02/09/2026

The final theory session for the Crew Leader course was held on Sunday, supported by an excellent catering service.
Morning Tea featured:
– Fruit, cheese and meat platter
– Home‑made sausage rolls
– Spanish tortilla
– Jam‑drop biscuits
– Scones with jam and cream
– Honey soy chicken wings
Lunch provided:
– Chicken enchiladas accompanied by lettuce, tomatoes, avocado and salsa
Thank you to all volunteers involved for your continued professionalism and dedication.
Our catering brigade doesn’t fight fires — we fuel the firefighters who protect our community. Whether you’re a seasoned volunteer or simply curious about how you can contribute, we’d love to hear from you and welcome you into the Brigade. Join the NSW RFS: www.rfs.nsw.gov.au/volunteer/join-the-nsw-rfs Contact: Group Officer David Moore – 0488 007 704

09/08/2026

The Catering Crew once again delivered an outstanding selection of meals for this weekend’s training courses.

Morning Tea featured:
– ANZAC cookies filled with caramel and finished with cream
– Lemon Slice
– Honey Soy Chicken Wings
– Taco Cups

Main Course options included:
– Chicken and Mushroom Filo Parcels
– Chicken and Camembert Filo Parcels

Meals were accompanied by a wedge salad and house‑made ranch dressing.
Thank you to all volunteers involved for your professionalism and continued dedication.
Our catering brigade doesn’t fight fires — we fuel the firefighters who protect our community. Whether you’re a seasoned volunteer or simply curious about how you can contribute, we’d love to hear from you and welcome you into the Brigade.
👉 Join the NSW RFS: www.rfs.nsw.gov.au/volunteer/join-the-nsw-rfs
📞 Contact: Group Officer David Moore – 0488 007 704

03/08/2026

🍽️ Community Field Liaison Course – Weekend Catering Wrap‑Up

Over the weekend, the Community Field Liaison Course was held at the Taree Fire Control Centre — and as always, our participants were treated to an incredible feast thanks to the hardworking catering team.

Sunday’s morning tea had everyone spoilt for choice, with a spread featuring:
• Fresh scones with jam and cream
• Mini beef sliders
• Taco cups
• Ham and cheese pinwheels
• Meat and cheese platter

Lunch kept the momentum going, serving up slow‑cooked beef brisket over pappardelle pasta with parmesan, paired with a fresh garden salad, garlic bread, and seasonal fresh fruit.

A huge thank‑you to everyone involved in preparing meals across the weekend. Your effort keeps our crews welcomed, energised, and ready to learn.
Our catering brigade doesn’t fight fires — we fuel the firefighters who protect our community. Whether you’re a seasoned volunteer or simply curious about how you can contribute, we’d love to hear from you and welcome you into the Brigade.
👉 Join the NSW RFS: www.rfs.nsw.gov.au/volunteer/join-the-nsw-rfs
📞 Contact: Group Officer David Moore – 0488 007 704

21/06/2026

Hunter Area RFS Championships – Catering Crew Update

This weekend our fabulous catering team were out at the Hunter Area Command Championships at the Macksville Showground, keeping everyone fuelled with a great variety of meals to power them through the competition.

The crews were absolutely spoilt:

Saturday Lunch
• Roast Beef & Gravy Rolls
• Pulled Pork & Slaw Rolls

Saturday Dinner
• Chicken Korma with Rice
• Beef Pasta
• Dessert: Mini Apple Pies or Sticky Date Pudding with Ice Cream

Sunday Breakfast
• Bacon & Egg Rolls
• Sausage & Onion Rolls
• Yoghurt Cups with Muesli

Sunday Lunch
• A selection of freshly made sandwiches to finish the day before the presentation and as always, there was plenty of fruit, muesli bars and snacks available throughout the weekend.

A huge thank‑you to our amazing volunteers who once again delivered quality meals, great service, and plenty of smiles. Your hard work keeps these events running smoothly and is appreciated by everyone involved.
Our catering brigade doesn’t fight fires — we fuel the firefighters who protect our community. Whether you’re a seasoned volunteer or simply curious about how you can contribute, we’d love to hear from you and welcome you into the Brigade.
👉 Join the NSW RFS: www.rfs.nsw.gov.au/volunteer/join-the-nsw-rfs
📞 Contact: Group Officer David Moore – 0488 007 704 See less

20/06/2026

08/05/2026

Crew Leader Theory Training Completed This Week
This week, six RFS members successfully completed their Crew Leader Theory training — a big milestone in their development as future leaders on the fireground.

Throughout the course, our wonderful catering crew kept everyone fuelled with great food and plenty of smiles. In appreciation for their hard work and support, the trainees surprised the catering team with a beautiful bouquet of flowers during morning tea.

It was a thoughtful gesture and a great reminder of the teamwork and community spirit that keeps our brigades strong.

Our catering brigade doesn’t fight fires — we fuel the firefighters who protect our community. Whether you’re a seasoned volunteer or simply curious about how you can contribute, we’d love to hear from you and welcome you into the Brigade.
👉 Join the NSW RFS: www.rfs.nsw.gov.au/volunteer/join-the-nsw-rfs
📞 Contact: Group Officer David Moore – 0488 007 704

02/05/2026

The Great Lakes Catering Brigade mourns the loss of devoted member John David Lynch ESM, whose dedication will be sorely missed. Condolences are offered to John's family during this difficult time.

Marine Rescue Forster Tuncurry mourns the passing of
John Lynch ESM

Marine Rescue Forster Tuncurry is deeply saddened to share the news that John Lynch ESM, passed away on 1 May 2026.

John joined the Coastal Patrol in 1995 as a Radio Operator and went on to serve as a Watch Leader, rescue vessel crew member, and Coxswain. His leadership extended beyond the water, holding roles as Treasurer, Divisional Commander and Regional Operations Manager prior to the transition to Marine Rescue NSW. Following that transition, John continued his outstanding service for many years as a Regional Director.

He was also the main instigator behind the construction of our base, not only involved in its planning but leading much of the fundraising that made it possible : a lasting legacy of his commitment to our unit and community.

In March 2025, Marine Rescue NSW Life Member and Forster Tuncurry volunteer John Lynch ESM was presented with his second MRNSW Service Medal Clasp for 30 years of service, along with a Commissioner’s Commendation for Service, by then Commissioner Alex Barrell, Her Excellency the Honourable Margaret Beazley AC KC, Governor of New South Wales, and Mr Dennis Wilson.

A tireless volunteer, John gave his time generously across Marine Rescue NSW, the RSL, and our local RFS Catering Crew, contributing to fundraising, crew operations, and community leadership.

John joined members of Marine Rescue and the RSL for Anzac Day 2026 at Tuncurry, his final public appearance.

Rest in peace, John.

You will be greatly missed by your fellow volunteers, friends, and the Forster Tuncurry community.

Photo L-R : Unit Commander Geoff Anderson, John Lynch ESM, Ray Mazurek ESM, MRNSW Director