Ipswich Group

The Ipswich Group was formed in May, 1974. Meetings were held under the Special School, Milford Street, Ipswich every Thursday night.

Equipment issued from State Stores to the group was mainly old surplus gear from the Defence Force.

The members purchased an old Blitz truck. This vehicle was used on a training night, but due to its age, the following weekend was needed to fix up the mechanical problems so that it was ready for the next training night.

The group grew in membership over the years and with that growth came the need for more vehicles and equipment. Fundraising purchased an additional vehicle. The State supplied a floodboat, radio system and rescue equipment. In 1984 a proposal was put to the two councils to build new buildings to house the groups.

The Ipswich City Council supplied a building at Thorn Street at a cost of $108,000. The members undertook the task of fitting out the inside and after fundraising $38,000 the job was completed in 1987. The result was a headquarters which is equal to, if not the most functional in the State. After further fundraising, all vehicles were upgraded. In 1988 a computer system was installed and after two years of local development and programming, four computers were networked.

Member of the Year 2005

Congratulations to Fred Sheather on being awarded the Ipswich Group 'Member of the Year 2005' 

The award is for excellence and dedication to the group during the year. 

Fred is truly a worthy recipient.