Local Firefighters Honoured as Finalists in Emergency Services Awards

The Shire of Manjimup is proud to acknowledge local fire and rescue volunteers who have been named finalists in the 2025 Fire and Emergency Services (WAFES) Awards, announced by Minister for Emergency Services, Hon. Paul Papalia this week.

From a pool of nominations across Western Australia, two local entries from the Shire have been selected among the 45 finalists.

Jamie Copeland, Captain of the Pemberton Volunteer Fire and Rescue Service, is a finalist for the Volunteer Fire and Rescue Service Individual Achievement Award. He is nominated for his outstanding leadership and mentorship, contributing significantly to the long-term sustainability of the service. Jamie was instrumental in the establishment of the Pemberton Youth Emergency Service Cadets program and remains committed to its ongoing success, helping to develop and inspire the next generation of emergency service volunteers.

The Northcliffe Volunteer Fire and Rescue Service and Northcliffe Bush Fire Brigade are jointly nominated for the Firefighting Team Achievement Award for their tireless efforts in battling the Chesapeake fire that burned for over a month in challenging conditions earlier this year.

Shire President Donelle Buegge congratulated the nominees and expressed deep gratitude for their commitment. “These nominations reflect the extraordinary dedication, skill and passion of our local emergency services personnel. On behalf of the Shire of Manjimup, I extend our heartfelt congratulations to Jamie and the Northcliffe teams. We thank all fire and emergency services volunteers and staff across the Shire for the critical work they do to keep our communities safe.”

Winners of the 2025 awards will be announced at the WAFES Awards gala dinner on 29 August 2025.

-ENDS-

Authorised by Donelle Buegge, Shire President
Contact: 0409 114 681

Benjamin (Ben) Rose, Chief Executive Officer
Shammara Markotis, Senior Digital Engagement and Marketing Officer