TRIBUTES have flooded in following the death of a former fire warden of the Woodhill Rural Fire Brigade, Tom Tait, who served with his firefighting “family” for more than two decades.
Mr Tait passed away from health complications on 21 October, leaving behind a legacy of service and a love for his mates.
First officer at the Woodhill station Ben Heilbronn said Mr Tait was family to the crew, serving as a mentor, trainer and “father figure”.
“Firefighters are like another family,” Mr Heilbronn said.
“It’s truly like that when you’re standing toe-to-toe on a line fighting fires with others, putting your life on the line. You build a rapport and friendship with people that lasts.”
Over the years, Mr Tait, a former combat medic in the army, held numerous positions at the Jimboomba and Woodhill fire brigades, and was recognised for his decades of rural fire service, including:
- Diligent and Ethical Service Medal
• Australia Day Achievement Award
• National Medal
• National Emergency Medal
According to Mr Heilbronn, one of Mr Tait’s most significant deployments was during the Drake fire in New South Wales (2019-20).
Dozens of locals took to Facebook last week to share their stories, best memories and photos with Mr Tait.
Some friends recalled meeting him for the first time – most remembered his determined spirit and service.
Mr Heilbronn said Mr Tait took “immense pride” in his uniform.
“… often seen after long deployments carefully scrubbing and polishing his boots with Nugget,” he said.
“By the second or third day of a deployment, others would join him, sitting nearby, cleaning their boots and sharing stories. His pride in appearance and discipline were traits he carried from his earlier service in the Australian Army.”
Mr Tait is survived by his wife, Lee, and their family.
