Firefighting hero farewelled
Published: 22nd June 2006
The funeral of Station Officer Stephen Richardson, who died in an accident while responding to an emergency on Wednesday 14 June, was held at Cobbitty on Tuesday 20 June 2006.More than 1000 family, friends and NSW Fire Brigades staff attended Station Officer Richardson's funeral where he was afforded full NSW Fire Brigades honours.
The coffin was carried on a vintage NSW Fire Brigades fire engine and the service was led by NSW Fire Brigades Chaplains.
Following tributes from SO Richardson's family, Commissioner Mullins gave a touching eulogy where he described Station Officer Richardson's professionalism as well as his jovial, positive nature and paid tribute to him as a hero.
During a long and distinguished career, Station Officer Richardson was awarded a Unit Commendation for Meritorious Service for taking part in the rescue of Stuart Diver at Thredbo, the National Medal, and the NSWFB Long Service and Good Conduct Medal. He was promoted to Station Officer on 17 September 2004.
He served at a number of Sydney fire stations including Lidcombe, Liverpool, Macquarie Fields, and in the Fire Safety Division at Greenacre.
Professionally, Station Officer Richardson will be remembered as a quiet and trusted leader, who was very effective at running incidents and a stickler for safety.
All staff are reminded that they can contact the NSW Fire Brigades' employee assistance provider OSA on 1300 361 008, or the Employee Assistance Coordinator, SO Wayne Young on 9265 2814 or 0417 462 401 for support.