Great Lakes Catering Brigade

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

16/02/2026

Mid Coast Training Season Has Started
After the recent Nerong Fires—where our amazing catering team delivered over 300 meals to support the response effort—we’ve now kicked off the 2026 Training Season.
With courses running nearly every weekend for the next few months, the team has been hard at work preparing this year’s menu plan and making sure our trainees are well fed throughout the season.
Here are a few pictures of what the team served up to the trainees over the weekend.
👉 Join the NSW RFS: www.rfs.nsw.gov.au/volunteer/join-the-nsw-rfs
📞 Contact: Group Officer David Moore – 0488 007 704

11/02/2026

24/01/2026

31/12/2025

🔥 Aerodrome Road & Willow Point Road Fires – Catering Update
Over the past few days, our catering team has been working hard to support the firefighters responding to the Aerodrome Road and Willow Point Road fires. They’ve prepared around 300 meals to keep crews fuelled during long, demanding shifts.
Lunches have included sandwiches and salad packs, and night time the team has served hot meals like Bolognese and Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta to help firefighters recharge after a tough day on the fireground.
A huge thank‑you to our volunteers and to the crews on the ground. Your dedication means everything to our community.

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

28/12/2025

We are absolutely heartbroken and guttered!

Today we were called to a motor vehicle accident with a person trapped only to find that our station had been broken into!

We have lost all our radios, internet, our specialist equipment, chainsaw, RFSA grant items of a light tower and donated items such as a blower and pressure cleaner!

Anyone with any details please let the police know asap!

Please share our post EVERYWHERE!

The handheld radios are engraved.
They took the time to unscrew the chargers from the bench.
They parked down the hill from the station and used the wheelie bin to transport things to the vehicle.

We are cranky, upset and frustrated!
Who does this?

27/11/2025

Join the RFS Catering Brigade – Volunteers Needed!

Do you love helping others and supporting your community during emergencies?
The Great Lakes Catering Brigade is looking for caring, capable volunteers to join our team!
What We Do
When Rural Fire Service crews are deployed or are in training, our Catering Brigade steps in to provide hot meals, snacks, drinks, and morale to firefighters and support teams. We help keep our frontline heroes fuelled and ready—whether during major bushfire operations, training days, community events, or emergency responses.
No firefighting experience required!
We’re seeking volunteers who are:
✔ Team-oriented and reliable
✔ Comfortable working in fast-paced or changing environments
✔ Happy to cook, prep food, serve meals, or help with logistics
✔ Committed to supporting their local community
What You’ll Gain
Hands-on training in safe food handling and operations
A welcoming, supportive volunteer community
The rewarding experience of serving those who protect us
New friendships, new skills, and a meaningful way to give back
How to Join
If you’re ready to make a difference and be part of an essential support team, we’d love to hear from you!
📩 Get in touch: Email [email protected]
📍 Location: 39 Grey Gum Rd Tuncurry
🌟 No experience needed—just a big heart and willingness to help!

Send a message to learn more

21/11/2025

🚒Catering are all set up at the Forster Car Show alongside Tuncurry Rural Fire Brigade.
If you’re interested in joining or the kids want to have a look in the truck make sure to pop down and say hello!