Bellbird Fire Brigade has today celebrated a major milestone as it commemorates 100 years of operation.
Fire and Rescue NSW (FRNSW) Deputy Commissioner Michael Morris joined local firefighters at Bellbird Fire Station to mark the occasion.
The brigade was founded in 1925 following a coal disaster in the Hunter Region town, where 21 miners were killed in an underground explosion.
The station was initially staffed by four volunteer firefighters who used a hand drawn hose reel later replaced by a horse-drawn cart and two Clydesdales.
During World War 2, Bellbird brigade increased to six firefighters, with another six allocated as reserves.
The FRNSW brigade moved to the station’s present site in 1948, when the facility consisted of a single garage and toilet.
By the early 1990s, Bellbird station was set for closure as its crew fell to six firefighters.
But thanks to support from the community and the region’s then-commander, and following bravery awards bestowed on local firefighters for their bushfire efforts, the station was saved.
The brigade was increased to 12 firefighters, and a new station was built due to windstorm damage to the building.
220 Bellbird has responded to many significant incidents locally and across the state since its inception, including:
- A large bushfire that destroyed several buildings in Weston and Kurri Kurri in December 2023 and threatened a local hospital.
- Major flooding events on the north coast in 2021, 2022 and 2025.
- A fatal fire that destroyed a Pokolbin winery in January 2008.
- A deliberately-lit fire behind Cessnock racecourse in October 2002 that spread into several communities and resulted in a death and 13 homes being destroyed.
- A fire that destroyed two Bellbird Public School classrooms in 1970.
FRNSW Commissioner, Jeremy Fewtrell AFSM, said:
“To operate for 100 years is a tremendous achievement and a testament to what our people mean to this region.
“I’m honoured to be in the Hunter to celebrate with the firefighters who have proudly represented the Bellbird community and answered the call when their help has been needed across the state.
“Today is an opportunity to commemorate those who have served Bellbird over the last century and to thank the firefighters who will continue to work tirelessly for this growing community.”
Clayton Barr, State Member for the Electorate of Cessnock, said:
“From bushfires to house fires and everything in between, our firefighters have been there on the worst days, putting themselves in harm’s way to keep others safe. Today we honour the history of this station and the extraordinary service of the firefighters who have worn its uniform.
“As our community has grown and changed, the station and its firefighters have adapted and stood ready. This centenary anniversary is a chance to say thank you, to remember those who served before us, and to commit to supporting our firies for the next hundred years and beyond.”