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My thoughts and deepest condolences are with you.
Mark Gribble
Station Officer Surfers Paradise Gold Coast Australia
Member of the Emergency Services Advisory Council Queensland & Life Member of
the UFU of Queensland
I would like to offer my most sincere condolences to the family of our
comrade and the New Zealand Fire service.
This tragedy reminds us all of the dangers we as firefighters face on a regular
basis.
I have been part of the fire service and member of the UFU for nearly 30 years
now and this loss of a fellow firefighter affects us all deeply.
I wish you all the best for the future.
Grant Gaskin
Inspector QFRS
On behalf of members of Whangarei Hatea Lions Club we wish to express our
condolences to the families for the recent tragedy, & send our best wishes for
those members who were severely injured in the recent tragedy, one of our
members Collen Porteous has a son in-law who is going through rehabilitation, &
we wish him well & all other fire fighters in the same situation.
Please accept our donation of $500.00 which I will deposit at ANZ Bank
Whangarei Branch on Wednesday 23rd April 2008.
Yours sincerely,
Yvonne Pitman
Secretary Whangarei Hatea Lions Club
Our thoughts are with all involved through this tragic time, we remember all
fellow firefighters & families recovering in our prayers and thoughts.
Inspector John Bolger
QFRS-Xstrata Contract Manager
Mount Isa Officers Firefighters & Technicians
Queensland Fire & Rescue Service
To our Mate Merv,Alice and Family and all NZPFU Personel,
Our heartfelt sympathies go out to Dereks Family at this sad time and all
injured.
Having grown up with Merv here in Paeroa and known him as a dear friend since
birth, his childhood mates here are devastated by his injuries, and hope our
prayers will be heard as he begins his long recovery. Having lost my mum only
two weeks prior to the accident, and knowing what a caring friend Merv is, as he
dropped everything to be with me in my time of loss, I feel deeply for his
family, friends and colleagues as you know as we do what a caring loving man
Merv is. Get well my friend our thoughts are with you...
Jim, Desi, Moose, and the Paeroa Lads
Dear comrade,
Please accept my deepest condolences for the loss of life of a colleague.
It is difficult to put into words the shock that this tragedy has had on all
firefighters across the world.
My thoughts are with you all as you come to terms with this tragic incident.
Yours fraternally
Brett Baulman
We can only imagine the heartache and long road to healing ahead for the
firefighters and families involved in this tragedy.
Our sincere condolences to Milli and family. Words fail....
Take care
Sylvea Mellor (Wife of Peter)
Registered Nurse, Tauranga ex Auckland
From all the members of the Woomera Emergency Services (South
Australia), our condolences to all involved, particularly Derek's family and
fellow comrades.
Michael Gore
Firefighter
Woomera Emergency Services (South Australia)
Hi Ian
I just wanted to pass on my commiserations on the death of your colleague. It is
always a tragedy when a worker dies on the job and even more so when in service
for the community. I expect that this is a difficult time for fire-fighters and
their families and our thoughts are with you.
Arohanui
Sheryl Cadman
Regional Secretary
National Distribution Union
From all firefighters at City of Sydney Fire Station `A` Platoon, our
heartfelt condolences go out to the family, comrades and friends of SO Derek
Lovell.
QF Stuart James
City of Sydney Fire Station `A` Platoon
I pass on my condolence to my fellow fire fighters and the family of our
fallen comrade. Just remember SSO Lovell passed doing something he loved and
paid the ultimate sacrifice for his fellow man. Courage is not the absence of
fear, but rather the thought that something is more important than fear. Rest
now my brother, your duty is done.
Scott Laurie
Townsville, Queensland, Australia
My sincere condolences to Red Watch and all the crews of Hamilton Fire
Station and the Fire Service family. Words seem so inadequate. My thoughts and
prayers are with you all.
Ange Birks
Waikato Resident
On behalf of the Murupara Volunteer Fire Brigade, we would like to
convey our sincere condolences to you and you family at this time.
Maera Anderson
Murupara Chief Fire Officer
To Derek's family and his colleagues, I send my & Paul's deepest sympathy.
There's no greater sacrifice by the few for the benefit of the many. May he rest
in peace and be remembered forever as a brave and honorable man.
Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his
friends. (John 15:13)
We also wish to send our hopes for speedy recoveries to all the firefighters
injured along side Derek.
Rachael Millar - 3rd Lieutenant Firefighter & Paul Zivic - Firefighter
Corio Fire Brigade, Geelong. Australia
To all members of the NZPFU
We would like to extend our thoughts of sadness regarding the loss of a fellow
firefighter and injuries sustained by the other 7 Firefighters. Would you please
pass onto the families of the Firefighter, our deepest sympathy’s and let them
know that we are thinking of them, and their situation.
7434 SO Phillip Eberle
“B” Platoon FF
238 Stn Broken Hill
BROKEN HILL, NSW
We were all saddened to hear the news.
Our thoughts are with you at this time.
Please give our condolences to the Lovell family, and our best wishes to those
in hospital.
yours sincerely,
David Fisher, Station Officer,
on behalf of 'B' Platoon
32 stn Mt Druitt, Sydney,
NSW Australia
From a fellow firey in Australia, I pass on my most sincerest condolences to
the family of SSO Lovell, and to his wider family at the Hamilton Fire Brigade.
You have many people thinking of you through this terrible time.
James Rumble
South Katoomba Rural FB
Katoomba, NSW Australia
I would like to express my condolences to the Family of SO Lovell and the
Firefighters of New Zeland. May SO Lovell rest in peace.
Lisa Dalby
Dalkeith Country Fire Service, South Australia
The Department of Corrections sends condolences and our thoughts to the
family of Derek, Red Watch Hamilton and all New Zealand Fire Service personnel
on their tragic loss. My personal thoughts are with you all as well.
Nothing can ever replace the loss felt by Derek's family or remove the impact of
such a tragedy. However, if some good can be said to have come from such great
loss, it is the outpouring of care shown by firefighters and the community for
those involved, and the even greater respect that the public has for all
firefighters.
Vincent Arbuckle
General Manager, Organisational Development, Department of Corrections.
Former Director of Human Resources, NZFS
It is with sadness we learnt of the LODD of SS/O Derek Lovell of Hamilton
Brigade. Our condolences and thoughts go to his family and friends for their
loss. Every death of one of our fellow colleagues touches us all across the
world in the firefighting community.
RIP
Jeff Anderson
Communications Officer Happy Valley CFS South Australia
On behalf of the officers and members of Washington Township Professional
Firefighters Local 3036, I would like to extend our most sincere condolences to
the family of SO Lovell and to the brothers and sisters of the NZPFU.
Fraternally,
Charles Mills
Dublin, Ohio, USA
On behalf of the Cranbourne Fire Brigade, I extend our heartfelt sympathies
to the families of the fallen, and our thoughts go to our brothers and sisters
in the Hamilton Fire Brigade.
Tragedies like this make no distinction between career staff or volunteer, male
or female, young or old. We are all affected, and all share your pain.
Richard Pollard
Secretary, Cranbourne Fire Brigade (CFA), Victoria, Australia
Thank you, Derek for your 25 years of selfless dedication to New Zealand. My
deepest condolences go out to, Milli and Derek’s family, his friends and fire
service comrades.
To the injured firemen hold strong you will get better you have the entire
nation behind you. Finally thank you to every single fire fighter your
dedication and bravery is indescribable you are TRUE HEROES reluctant heroes but
still heroes.
Rest in Peace Derek. Next time that pager beeps, the bell rings, the radio call
comes, your comrades will be back on the truck doing what you did so
extraordinarily well helping, protecting, saving and educating our communities.
Your passing will not be in vain rest now my hero for your job is done. K47
Jesse James
Dunedin
To RED WATCH Hamilton 411, My sincere condolences for the loss of Derek who
was one of Hamilton's best firefighters. You guys are awesome - never forget
that! KIA KAHA - Stay Strong - Onwards and Upwards!
Shaun Libeau
Hamilton
Please pass on our deepest sympathy to Derek Lovell's family, and the
families of the other firefighters involved in this most tragic of accidents.
Although thousands of miles separate us geographically, we are all one family
and when anything happens to one of us, we all feel it.
Rob Johnson & Barnsley Green Watch
South Yorksire Fire and Rescue
UK
My deepest and sincere condolences go to the Lovall family at this extremely
sad time. Words are hard to find when you lose someone as special as you have.
My thoughts and prayers are with the injured firefighters and and their
families, and I pray for a speedy and safe recovery for all.
My condolences to all NZPFU members and their families affected by this tragedy.
Thoughts and prayers are with the entire NZFS and NZPFU at this sad time.
Sarah
Blue Watch
Communicator
Northern Communications Centre
As mother and father in law to a firefighter who was injured in fighting a
fire we respect and admire the brother hood of firefighters.
May we offer our deepest sympathy to the family and the crews in the Hamilton
area on the sad loss of one of your own - Senior Station Officer Derek Lovell -
may he rest in peace
Ian & Noeline Reisch
In Laws
Derek and members,
So sorry to hear of the tragic event claiming the life of a fellow Firefighter
and injuring many of his crew, some very seriously. All speed to their recovery
and strength to SSO Lovell's family.
sincerely,
Bruce Pickthall
Senior Station Officer
MFB, Melbourne.
Derek was an amazing man, who would do anything to help someone. I will
always remember his smile.
Dr Nichola Harcourt
Curator
Heartfelt condolences to Derek Lovell's family and friends. Also we wish a
speedy recovery to all the other firefighters injured in this tragedy. Our
thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time.
Codladh Samh.
Ben and Una Cranwell
Dublin, Ireland.
Parents of Akl firefighter Peter Cranwell
The National Executive of the Engineering, Printing & Manufacturing Union
expresses its deepest sympathies with the families and colleagues of those
Firefighters felled and injured by the Icepak Coolstore fire in Hamilton, April
2008.
We stand with you, our comrades.
Andrew Little and staff
EPMU / Engineering, Printing & Manufacturing Union
To injured comrades and their families,
Our thoughts are with you all and this tragedy will always be remembered for the
heroic efforts of Derek and his crew.
Toby Kerr
Waitemata Fire Station Yellow Watch
My condolences go out to Derek's family and friends. A husband, father, son,
uncle, nephew, friend and colleague has been taken from us far too early. May he
rest in peace.
Kelli Jones
New Zealand Professional Firefighters Union and the Family of Derek Lovell,
Please accept my sincere condolences for the loss of your brother firefighter
and loved one. Our thoughts and prayers are with you in this tragic time.
Sincerely,
Stephen Mac Innis
Training Officer
DTS-Fire
Kitchener Fire Department
270 Strasburg Rd.
Kitchener, ON
N2E 3M6
Sad Loss of a true professional, rest in peace.
Eddie McQuillan
Auckland
Sorry for the loss of one of your Brothers, I hope the remaining Brothers
make a speedy recovering and our thoughts are with your families and fellow
Station Brothers.
Peace Brothers
The Fetolofais'
Ron, Heather, Caleb, Marcelle and Jackie
(Invercargill Fire, Senior Firefighter)
As an ex SSO 31 years service Auckland and Wellington, my respects,
condolences and feelings go out to you all at this horrific time. We all treat
the job with casual respect but times like this let us know we walk on a knife
edge and have just been bloody lucky through the years.
I retired just a couple of years ago and am sailing in Asia at the moment and
saw the news on the net. Nothing more to say but your sorrow is shared.
Shane Hegan
Ex SSO Auckland / Wellington
Words are always hard to find at such a time. Our deepest sympathies go out
to Dereks family in this time of loss. Our thoughts are also with Dennis, Brian,
Dave, Alvin Adrian and Cameron and their families as they adjust to life now
changed. Everyone is deeply concerned for Merv (Ma) as he lays at Middlemore,
fighting to recover from such terrible burns. Hang in there Merv, one brigade
funeral is one too many.
There is however comfort for these boys, their families, Derek's family and
indeed our brotherhood, in the outpouring of support, admiration and gratitude
shown by the public of New Zealand over the past few days. To know he and his
boys are held in such high esteem by the public, for Derek, I'm sure is thanks
enough.
Aaron Waterreus
Rotorua
Our thoughts are with everyone involved through this sad time, we wish all
recovering a speedy recovery
regards,
Karl Scragg
Members of the East Coast Fire Brigades Sub Association
Gisborne, East Coast
Our thoughts are with you all at this time and in the future.
Martin Jansen
Dunedin ASO Red Watch
Please accept my deepest sympathies during this very difficult time. I am
keeping in my thoughts and prayers the Lovell family and wishing a speedy
recover to your injured members.
Fraternally,
Timothy Moreau
IAFF Local 1391
Taunton Fire Department
Taunton MA USA
Barry, we are very sorry the NZ Fire Service has lost one of its members to
the fire in Hamilton last weekend. I would assume you are a fairly close knit
bunch and would all feel the loss personally – whether still a serving member or
retired. A nasty business which brings home the risks in the profession.
Our regards
Kevin Stirrat
Head of Funds Management
FORSYTH BARR
Mate it seems a long time ago since working out in the gym at the old Manukau
fire station, but it was only last we spoke. Although no longer with us in
person, you will always be in spirit.
Gavin Travers
Auckland
It is with great regret that I hear the news that you have lost a Fire
Fighter, coupled with others injured. Please if you can, extend our regrets with
the knowledge that our hopes and prayers are with you all.
Thanks
Ron Stanko
Deputy Fire Chief
Jasper Fire Department
Box 520
Jasper, AB. T0E-1E0
I would like to express my deepest sympathy to the fire fighters and their
families of the tragic loss of SSO Derek Lovell. I would also like to record my
thanks to the community of Tamahere and the crews that were subsequently turned
out for fearlessly coming to the crew’s aid in their time of need.
It is sobering to think that a routine PFA and predicable K77 arrival can
suddenly become a fatal incident that will touch so many lives. To the red watch
crew reeling from the impact of this incident I wish you all a speedy recovery
both physically and emotionally.
Finally to the Fire Safety investigators I wish you god-speed to determine the
cause of this incident and to make recommendations that will better protect both
fire-fighters and the communities they serve in the future.
Martin Karl
Ex Volunteer Fire Fighter, Papatoetoe 1980-1987
On behalf of C Shift at Surfers Paradise Fire Station, I offer our thoughts
and condolences to Derek Lovell's family, workmates and friends. In this time of
sorrow, we hope you are comforted by the thought that there are many of us
thinking of you.
Scott Morgan - Station Officer
Mark Gribble - Station Officer
David Searles- Leading Firefighter
Geoff Davis - Senior Firefighter
Sean Gribble - Senior Firefighter
Stuart Maclachlan - Senior Firefighter
Evan Kimmins - Senior Firefighter
George Salpegidis - Senior Firefighter
Brett Martin - Firefighter 2nd Class
Rick Attard - Firefighter 1st Class
Surfers Paradise Fire Station, Queensland Fire and Rescue Service, Australia
The Trustees of and Consultants to the New Zealand Fire Service
Superannuation Scheme wish to extend their condolences to the families of and to
the Firefighters involved in the major fire south of Hamilton on Saturday
afternoon.
Are thoughts are with you one and all !
On behalf of the Trustees and Consultants
Barry Dent
SCHEME SECRETARY
Farewell Derek
My colleague and friend.
Your inspiration and humour will long remain.
Phil Grace
Ponsonby
To Derek's family, friends and colleagues, please accept my heartfelt
sympathy and that of Brown Watch Dunedin. The pain and sorrow of your loss is
felt by us all.
Lindsay Rae
SSO Brown Watch Dunedin
Dear Derek
Please accept our deepest sympathy and condolences on the death of a member of
the Firefighters Union, Derek Lovell, and the serious injuries received by other
members of the union during the course of duty at Tamahere on April 5.
We are keenly aware of the sadness and grief that your members must be feeling
during these difficult times for your unions' members. Our President,
Sinclair Watson, is an ex professional firefighter and he has conveyed to us the
strong sense of solidarity and loss which you will be feeling.
Our National Office is in Hamilton and we are part of the community which is
affected by the tragedy.
Workers Memorial Day is on April 28 and the Unions Waikato branch of the NZCTU
is holding a memorial service for all workers killed at work in the last year at
2pm in the Hamilton Gardens. Among local worker deaths this year we will
be remembering Shaun Smith a US citizen and member of the RMTU who was killed in
a rail track accident, and we will also remember Derek at the memorial service.
Please ask your Waikato union branch to contact me for more details about
workers memorial day.
Once again we share your loss in solidarity,
James Ritchie
National Secretary
On behalf of the Staff and Executive of NZ Dairy Workers Union
To the Officers and Members of the Hamilton Local NZPFU.
On behalf of the Masterton Local we wish to extend our deepest sympathy to you
all after the tragic events that occurred on the 5th April 2008.
Our thoughts are with the Families of Derek, and the other injured members of
the Hamilton Brigade who were on duty that day.
It is this type of unfortunate incident that reinforces what it means to be part
of the world wide brotherhood that we are all proud to be associated with.
Please accept our condolences.
Glenn Hudson
Secretary.
Masterton Local.
Derek and Steve,
On behalf of the members “D” platoon at Hoppers Crossing Fire Brigade (Country
Fire Authority Victoria Australia), I would like to express our sincere
condolences to all involved at the recent cool stores fire at Tamahere, to all
members of the New Zealand Professional Firefighters Union and especially to the
families and colleges of the members injured or tragically killed at the
incident.
Although we are in a different country we are all members of the same family.
When we see or hear of a fellow a fire fighter being injured or killed in the
line of duty it hits home and it hits hard.
This short message really cannot express the feelings and thoughts we have for
all involved.
Stay Strong and Stay Safe
STRENGTH IN UNITY
Sincerely
Cory Woodyatt
Fire Officer
Hoppers Crossing Fire Brigade
119 Derrimut Rd
HOPPERS CROSSING VIC 3030
Steve
Please accept the condolences of all members of staff of the Mornington Fire
Brigade for the passing of our esteemed colleague in the line of duty. Please
pass our wishes on to all those injured and affected by this tragedy.
Glenn T. Proebstl
Fire Officer
United Firefighters Union Delegate
Mornington Fire Brigade
859 Nepean Highway
Mornington Victoria 3931
My family and I pass on our sincere condolences after this shocking accident.
Our thoughts and prayers are with all.
FF Mtchell Emmett
Fire fighter (Australia)
Words cannot express the the depth of feeling and grief for this tragic loss.
We deal with trauma and grief as part of our daily duty, however there is no
preparation for the loss of one of our own. Derek was family and we'll miss him.
My condolences and support goes to his family and colleagues at Hamilton at this
sad time.
Richard Anastasi
Rotorua - Senior Station Officer
I saw with sadness and disbelief on the news of your loss. I wish to express
my deepest sympathy to you all and the families of the firefighters involved.
Let it be known that we here in Australia are thinking of you all in what must
be a difficult time.
Kind regards,
Simon Lehmann
Leading Firefighter
Mornington Fire Brigade
Sir/madam,
Please pass on my condolences to all NZPFU members and their families affected
by the weekends tragedy.
Regards
Station Officer Bryan Garvey
Community Safety Coordinator
Behavioural and Social Analysis
New South Wales Fire Brigades
Steve,
As a firefighter of 38 years I was devastated to hear of the tragedy that has
befallen our comrades in New Zealand, my heart felt condolences go out to all
New Zealand Fire Fighters and their families.
Regards from
Peter Andrews
Station officer
Equipment & Resource Management
Dear Derek
I write on behalf of the Fire Brigades Union, to pass on our sincere condolences
to the family, friends and colleagues of Derek Lovell, following his tragic
death on Saturday.
Deaths of colleagues affect everyone within the Fire Service very deeply, and
those killed in the line of duty tragically highlight the very dangerous work
which Firefighters do on behalf of their community every day.
Our thoughts are also of course, very much with Derek’s colleagues Merv Neil,
Dennis Wells, Adrian Brown, Dave Beanland, Alven Walker, Brian Halford and
Cameron Grylls, who remain in hospital following the incident.
If there is anything that the Fire Brigades Union can do to assist at this very
difficult time, please do not hesitate to let me know.
Yours in unity
MATT WRACK
GENERAL SECRETARY
The Fire Brigades Union
KINGSTON UPON THAMES, SURREY
All of us in the NSW Fire Brigades are saddened and shocked by the tragic
events of last Saturday, and our thoughts and best wishes are with the family,
friends, and colleagues of Derek Lovell, and of course with those who have been
injured. Flags at all NSWFB stations in the state flew at half mast on Monday
and Tuesday as a mark of respect for Derek.
Your fellow firefighters from Australia are thinking of all of you at this most
difficult time.
Greg Mullins AFSM
Commissioner
All,
please accept our heart felt sympathy for the loss S/O Derek Lovell and the best
wishes for a quick and full recovery for the other members injured on Saturday.
6780 S/O Dave McPherson
and the members of A platoon
63 Station Blacktown
Nswfb Australia
Please accept our sincerest condolences on the loss of one of our
Firefighting family. The loss of SO Lovell and the injuries to the other
Firefighters is a reminder of the constant and unexpected nature of the dangers
Firefighters face every day around the world. We wish a speedy and complete
recovery for the injured Firefighters and we feel deeply for the loss suffered
by SO Lovell's family.
The Firefighters and Officers at 340 Station Umina, New South Wales Fire
Brgades, Australia .
6489 S.O. Guy Brisbourne
Relieving Station Officer
304 Gosford 'D'
From 320 Hamilton Fire Station "D" Platoon,
Newcastle
All our thoughts go out to the firefighters and their families.
From a station of the same name, we are thinking of you.
5410 S/O A. Brander
Station commander
"D" Platoon
To Derek's family, to those who are injured and their families.....Deepest
sympathies and condolences go to you all from myself and the other members of
the Porirua Volunteers.
Andrew Mills
Station Officer, Porirua Volunteers
It is with great sorrow that I learnt of Dereks tragic death.
I like many others had the pleasure of knowing & working with Derek over the
years.
The last time I saw Derek was a few weeks ago at a large fire we had here at
Kinleith, as usual he was upbeat and enjoying life and the job, we had a great
old catchup.
On behalf of myself, my co director Alan Mycroft & all our staff, may we
pass on our sincere condolences to Dereks family.
Our thoughts are also with those suffering injuries, and we wish them a speedy
recovery.
Bob Durham
Director, Emergency Management Solutions Ltd
As someone who worked in New Zealand Ambulance services for over 30 years I
know only too well the potential dangers fire fighters are faced with with as
they go about their job to protect the public. Having said that it still comes
as a great shock when an incident such as that that occurred last Saturday
happens.
We work with NZFS personnel from the Wellington area on a regular basis, to them
and to all New Zealand fire fighters we send you our deepest sympathy on the
loss of Senior Station Derek Lovell. We are also thinking of Merv, Brian,
Dennis, Adrian, Alven, Dave and Cameron, their recovery could well be long but
we are sure that the support shown by both firefighters and the public from
around the world will give them strength.
Paul O'Flaherty and the Emergency Management Team of Cindy Darroch and Greg
Phillips.
Wellington Hospital
Capital and Coast Health DHB.
To Derek's family, to those who are injured and their families.....My most
sincere sympathy and condolences go to you all.
Losing a well respected fellow colleague, with whom I have worked with in
Southern Command, Auckland, is devastating.
I am unable to attend Derek's funeral, but my thoughts are with all fellow
firefighers and their families at this time.
Peter Mellor
Ex-Senior firefighter, Auckland
It was with great sorrow that we read about the tragic death and serious
injuries suffered by the Hamilton fire service in the course of duties.
Please accept our sincere condolences for the loss of your colleague SO Derek
Lovell and all Firefighters injured in this tragedy.
I am certain that the brotherhood, camaraderie and support of both fire service
families will be activated to ensure the speedy recovery as they will surrounded
by friends and encouragement both for themselves as well as their families.
Please also pass on to the family and loved ones of SSO Derek Lovell our heart
felt sympathy at this time and our thoughts and prayers are with them all.
From all the staff at Success Fire Station (16) D Platoon
Fire and Rescue Service of Western Australia.
SO-Simon Southen, SFF-Paul Skilton FF-Scott Hares and FF-Andrew Spry.
"To Hamilton City Fire Fighters"
We would like to express our deepest sympathy to the fire fighters and their
families of the tragic loss of SSO Derek Lovell, a much respected colleague.
We wish a speedy recovery to our injured brothers. Our thoughts and prayers are
with you all at this sad time.
"RED WATCH"
Northern Communications Centre
Steve
Mau
Paul
Tania
Paulette
Carena
Nicole
Cath
Dear Steve,
The Fire Officers and Fire-fighters at Cranbourne Fire Station, Victoria,
Australia wish to express their sincere condolences to the family of the
fire-fighter that died and to the families of the fire-fighters that were
injured at the factory fire in Tamahere.
On behalf of the Platoons at Cranbourne,
Yours Sincerely,
Ian Glass
Shop Steward
Cranbourne
Colleagues,
It is with great sadness, that I learn of the loss of a former Auckland City
fire-fighting friend, and respected colleague, Senior Station Officer Derek
Lovell.
I was a fire-fighter and officer serving with Derek in Auckland for many good,
fun years, predominantly at Manukau. I concur with comments, made by many since,
that he was a good fire-fighter and a good man. The right stuff, as they say.
I hope dearly, that the remaining injured fire-fighters pull through and that
their rehabilitation to full strength and renewed fortitude, will be not unduly
long and painful and that they are able to soon return to their families and to
resume duty to continue their worthy chosen work - to save others' lives, as
theirs were saved.
I am certain that the unrivalled brotherhood, camaraderie and support of both
the NZFS and UFU families will activate as I have seen already, to ensure their
speedy recovery surrounded by good mates and encouragement both for themselves
as well as their families.
Firefighters of the Queensland Fire and Rescue Service Far Northern Region pass
on their condolences and respects to Derek's family, as well as for those and
their families, still recovering from the ordeal.
We are proud of you all.
Regards
ROYD KENNEDY GM Dip. PM
Regional Planning Officer
Queensland Fire and Rescue Service
Far North Region
PO Box 920
Cairns Q 4870
It is with sadness that we hear of the tragic loss of one of New Zealand's
most respected and trusted members of society and the severe injuries to seven
of his comrades.
The members of FRFANZ ask that their condolences be passed onto Derek's family,
friends and work mates.
We also wish the seven injured fire-fighters strength and courage to a speedy
recovery through these stressful times.
To all the Fire fighters around the Waikato and their families, you will not be
far from our thoughts as we all struggle to come to terms with why this happened
to our finest.
Doug Ashford
Chairman
Forest & Rural Fires Association of New Zealand
Dear colleagues
We are all moved by the loss and horrific injuries sustained by firefighters in
New Zealand. Our thoughts are with you at this difficult time. We extend our
sincere condolences and support. I have always been impressed by the
professionalism of New Zealand firies that I have met over the years and am
deeply saddened to hear of recent events.
John Jugum AFSM
Metropolitan Fire Brigade | 456 Albert Street| East Melbourne Vic 3002
Steve, my thoughts are with you all after such a tragic fire.
Condolences to the family members and friends and wishing a speedy recovery to
those injured.
Kind regards LFF Brad Pratt
MFB, Melbourne (Footscray Fire Station)
I have a small girl about the same age as Derek Lovell's daughter and feel
great sympathy for Milli. What a tragedy that the future precious years between
Derek and them will be missed. Milli, I think that mothers and wives everywhere
are crying quietly with you, and we wish we could make it better.
To the injured firemen: thank you. All firefighters are heroes for putting their
bodies and lives on the line for us, and you guys have really driven that home.
Best of luck for your healing and recovery.
Warmest wishes
Andrea Graves
Hamilton resident
Dear friends and Comrades,
Words can't describe the feeling over here, in response to the tragedy you guys
have experienced.
As an elected union official for NSW Aust, a delegate to the joint UFU of A and
NZPFU, and more importantly as a fellow firefighter, my thoughts are with you.
I have been asked by my workmates, and union delegates in the Illawarra region
of NSW, to pass on their regards, and to let you know we will be donating to the
trust, as a sign of our support, as a sign of our solidarity, and genuine
concern for the firefighters and families involved.
Please pass on our support to those involved.
In unity,
Darin Sullivan
Secretary - Illawarra Sub-Branch
State Committee of Management
Fire Brigade Employees' Union (FBEU)
National Committee of Management Delegate
United Firefighters Union of Australia
Good afternoon Steve and Barry
On behalf of us all here at New Zealand Assets Management, I would to convey our
condolences to your members and the families of those injured and lost in the
tragic fire at Tamahere over the weekend. A truly devastating event, and its
consequences only reinforce to people like us the difficulties your fellow
members have to face each and everyday while carrying out their duties.
Kind Regards
Richard Riddell
Principal
New Zealand Assets Management Ltd
I just wanted to pass on AllianceBernstein's condolences for NZFS's loss of
Mr Lovell and injuries suffered at Tamahere in recent days.
For me the tragedy touched an additional nerve as in the 70s I was a pupil at
Tamahere school, next door to the coolstores. The stores were built on the site
of the former Koppens family-owned berry gardens where I had a holiday job for
many years, working for Arnold Koppens.
I know all of you in the Fire Service team, including trustees of the Super
Fund, will be feeling this loss and standing beside his family.
Kind regards
Mel Hewitson
Manager, Institutional Relationships
AllianceBernstein New Zealand Limited
Good-bye! a kind good-bye,
I bid you now, my friend,
And though 'tis sad to speak the word,
To destiny I bend
And though it be decreed by Fate
That we ne'er meet again,
Your image, graven on my heart,
Forever shall remain.
Aye, in my heart thoult have a place,
Among the friends held dear,-
Nor shall the hand of Time efface
The memories written there.
Goodbye,
From your fellow brothers and sisters,
NZPFU Members of the Northern Communications Centre
My family and l would like to send our sincere condolences to the families ,
friends and colleagues . All of our members here in Melbourne were in shock to
hear of such a tragedy and can only hope for a fast recovery for those injured
our thoughts are with you all
Wayne Smith
Station Officer
Melbourne
The Officers and Members of the Mendota Fire Department and Mendota
Firefighters Local 4200 IAFF/AFFI would like to extend our deepest condolences
to you on the loss of Senior Station Officer Derek Lovell. Please know that our
thoughts and prayers are with you and Senior Station Officer Lovell's family as
you go through this most difficult time. We would also like to wish the other
firefighters that were injured that day a speedy recovery. Even though we are a
world apart, we will stand shoulder to shoulder with you through these dark
hours.
Sincerely,
Randy Simpson
Firefighter / Paramedic
Mendota, Illinois USA
Steve
It was with great sadness that I read about the death and serious injuries
suffered by the Hamilton fire service in the course of duties.
Please accept my sincere condolences for the loss of your colleague SO Derek
Lovell and all firefighters injured in this tragedy. I wish them a speedy
recovery.
Please also pass on to the family and loved ones of SO Lovell my heart felt
sympathy at this time.
Balan Pillay
Manager Health, Safety & Welfare
Fire & Emergency Services of Western Australia
Dear Comrades,
Please accept our sincere condolences for the loss of our brother Station
Officer Derek Lovell. Our thoughts are with his immediate family and his
extended firefighting family.
Station Officer Kim Reeson
Firefighters Tony Gutteridge
Chris Robinson
Danny Rossetto
Wes Haynes
Mick McHugh
Rob Brusilowicz
D Platoon
No 77 Station St Marys New South Wales - Australia
On behalf of all the members of NSWFB 316 Goonellabah Fire Brigade I wish to
pass on our deepest sympathies and condolences to the Family of S/O Derek
Lovell, the Families of all those injured, the Members of Hamilton Fire Brigade,
the New Zealand Fire Service and to all those affected by the tragedy of the
recent cold store.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
7188 S/O Ian Grimwood
Station Commander
316, Goonellabah
I would like to express my condolences to the family, colleagues and friends
of Derek during this very sad time. My thoughts are also with the firefighters
and their families of those who were injured.
I know after working in Hamilton that you will support each other, the families
of those injured and Derek’s family.
Take Care
Grant Olsen
District Manager Perth South Coastal
Fire and Emergency Services
Perth Western Australia
Dear Firefighters,
On behalf of all the firefighters in my area of command known as Regional West 3
in New south Wales Australia please accept our deepest and sincere condolences
at this time of great sadness.
Our thoughts and sympathy are with all the families of those injured and the
firefighter that was killed, and of course all New Zealand firefighters at this
time of great distress.
Kind Regards,
Gary Galwey
Superintendent
Zone Commander RW3
NSW Fire Brigades
Members of the Dunedin Local NZPFU extend their heartfelt commiserations at
the tragic loss of Derek. Also we wish those that were injured a speedy
recovery. We know that in times like these fire-fighters across all spectrums
band together to assist their colleagues. If there is anything we can do to
assist please let us know. Thanks and good luck for the forthcoming weeks which
will be stressful to all.
Cheers. Mike Meaden
Dear Derek
It is with great sadness that I learn of the tragic Line Of Duty death of Senior
Station Officer Derek Lovell and the serious injuries sustained by a number of
firefighters last Saturday.
On behalf of my members, I extend our condolences to Derek's family and friends
and express our hopes for a full and speedy recovery of the other injured
members.
At a tragic time such as this, it serves to remind us all of the sacrifices and
risks that firefighters face every day simply by going to work to serve their
community.
Could you please pass on our best wishes to the families of the members
concerned.
If there is anything that I or my members can do to assist, please do not
hesitate to contact me.
Yours fraternally
MARK WALKER
State Secretary
United Firefighters Union of Australia
Union of Employees Queensland
Dear Derek
May I take this opportunity to express my sincere condolences to the family,
friends and colleagues of Derek Lovell, who was lost to us all so tragically on
Saturday.
Deaths of firefighters in the line of duty is sadly all too common, and whilst
so disheartening, only serves to urge us on in the work we do.
May I also extend my best wishes to Merv Neil and Brian Halford, whose condition
still is a cause of great concern for us all.
May I also ask you to pass on best wishes to Dennis Wells, Adrian Brown, Alvin
Walker and Cameron Grylls, and their families and friends.
With best wishes.
Yours in unity.
ANDY DARK
Assistant General Secretary
The Fire Brigades Union
KINGSTON UPON THAMES, SURREY
My thoughts are with my fellow firefighters and the families of those
injured.
I have had the news e mailed to me by SPRATS DOUGHTY Ak. I am in Columbia at the
moment and deeply regret that I can not get home to Derek's funeral. I worked
with Derek at Manukau RED WATCH. As always I try to keep in touch with fellow
staff and always fear hearing bad news. Please pass on my thoughts to the family
of Derek and the families of other crewmen who are injured.
John Glen
To all NZ Firefighters, and in particular the Hamilton Brigade and their
families . . . my thoughts are with you all at this time of tragedy, especially
the family, friends and crewmates of Staion Officer Lovell who lost his life in
the line of duty.
The pain you are all suffering doesn't bear thinking about - it is always tragic
when a Firefighter anywhere in the world is killed, but hits home terribly when
it is one of our next door neighbours.
My heart goes out to you all,
Sincerely
Rosi King
Firefighter
10 Station - Redfern, NSWFB
Derek
Please extent the deepest condolences to your members as well as the family of
Brother Lovell in your recent loss. We stand with you in these difficult times
when one of our own makes the Ultimate Sacrifice. My thoughts and prayers are
with you during this difficult time.
Fraternally Yours
Harold A. Schaitberger
General President
International Association of Fire Fighters
1750 New York Ave. N.W.
Washington D.C. 20006
To the members of NZPFU,
on behalf of the members of NSWFB's 14stn Ashfield "A" Platoon in Sydney
Australia, I offer you our condolences at this difficult time. I hope you are
able to pull together and support each other, as well as the families of those
so hurt by these recent events. We may be in a different country but we relate
deeply to your situation. Our thoughts are with you.
Sincerely,
6335 S/O Ross Hyland
Station Commander
As partners in the NSWFB, we were both upset to hear about the sad tragedy in
Hamilton New Zealand.
We give are deepest condolences to the family of Station Officer Derek Lovell
and hope for a speedy recovery of the other brothers injured.
Narelle Evans (Fairfield 'C' platoon)
Joseph Kaposi (Smithfield 'C' platoon)
To: The New Zealand Professional Firefighters Union,
On behalf of the all at No. 15 Fire Station, Burwood, of the New South Wales
Fire Brigades Australia, may I offer our very heart felt condolences at this
extremely sad and challenging time.
The fellowship of firefighters is an international bond and it is with this in
the forefront of our minds that our thoughts are with you all.
Please pass on our message of support to the colleagues, families, friends and
loved ones of the firefighters involved in the tragic events in Hamilton.
Best regards,
7058 Jim Stephen.
Station Officer.
15 Station, Burwood
"A" Platoon.
NSW Fire Brigades,
Australia.
Comrades,
On behalf of the members of A Platoon, 73 Station (Fairfield), New South Wales
Fire Brigades, may I offer our Condolences to our New Zealand Fire Service
comrades and to the family and friends of SSO Derek Lovell. As well, we hope for
the speedy recovery from injury of the other seven firefighters.
7897 Senior FF Peter Tutty
on behalf of
7167 Station Officer Steve Docker
9043 FF Peter Hunt
9126 FF Daniel Miller
9286 FF Matthew Miller
A Platoon
73 Stn, Fairfield
NSW Fire Brigades
Sydney, Australia.
It is always with great interest that we watch the news for articles
reporting on fires and emergency incidents. We do not expect to hear that our
comrades have been injured or much worse. I was shocked to hear the initial
reports of injuries and death at the recent cool store fire at Tamahere.
From all of the staff at Craigieburn Fire Station please convey our condolences
and best wishes to the families of the firefighters involved and also to the
broader family, our brothers and sisters in the fire brigade.
Peter Spicer
Leading Firefighter
B Platoon
We, the crew of NSWFB 49 station (Cabramatta) A platoon, wish to express our
sincere condolences at the loss of SO Derek Lovell of the Hamilton Brigade, we
would also like to wish the other firefighters injured in the recent incident a
very speedy and full recovery. Our thoughts and prayers are with the
firefighters affected and their respective families.
Daniel Manoliu
NSWFB
49 station - 'A' platoon
It was with great sadness that members of 398 Narooma station heard about the
death and serious injuries suffered by the Hamilton fire service in the course
of duties.
Please accept our condolences for the loss of your colleague SO Derek Lovell and
all firefighters injured in this tragedy. We wish them a speedy recovery.
Please also pass on to the family and loved ones of SO Lovell our heart felt
sympathy at this time.
Yours Sincerely
S J Spence
NSWFB
398 Station
2 Clarke Street
NAROOMA 2546
N.S.W Australia.
Hello Pete,
Our thoughts are with you, your Wanganui and District Fire-fighters and
Fire-fighters throughout New Zealand as you mourn the loss of a valued colleague
following the disastrous event that occurred over the weekend in the Waikato.
New Zealanders value and appreciate all Fire-fighters and the loss of one of
your colleagues is felt throughout the New Zealand community.
Our thoughts and sympathy are with you all.
Kindest regards
Jill Pettis MP and Warren Pettis
On Behalf of all Officers and Firefighters at Queanbeyan Fire Station (New
South Wales Fire Brigades, Australia)
Our condolences go out to the family of Senior Station Officer Derek Lovell and
the New Zealand Fire Service during this sad time.
Our thoughts are also with the firefighters and families who were injured as a
result of the Fire.
Regards,
S/O Jason Murphy
Station Commander
Queanbeyan Fire Station
My condolences to your organization and the family of
Senior Officer Lovell. I am a firefighter in Massachusetts ( USA ).
Fred Lewis, Jr
Massachusetts, USA
The Officers and Members of the Hershey, Pennsylvania
(U.S.A.) Fire Department wish to pass on their deepest condolences upon hearing
of the tragic L.O.D.D. of Senior Station Officer Derek Lovell, and earnestly
pray for the full recovery of Derek's six colleagues, who were also injured at
this incident.
Our brothers around the world always come together at these tragic times, and we
also earnestly pray that the family members of your department will find solace
in God's true love.
Kind regards,
Dennis J. Thompson
Training Officer, Hershey (PA) Fire Department
Hi Guys, Condolences from B Shift at Hallam, as a fellow
Kiwi from Te Awamutu I send warm wishes to the injured Firefighters and wish
them all a speedy recovery.
Kerry Phillips
Fire Officer
Hallam Fire Station
12 - 14 Belgrave Hallam Rd
Hallam VIc 3803
Please pass on our condolences to the family and loved ones
of SSO Derek Lovell. Our thoughts and prayers are with them at this tragic time.
Even though we know the job is dangerous, being a wife, you take for granted
that your husband will return home safe after each shift, but unfortunately for
some of us we learn the hard way that this is not always the case.
My husband Richard, a Melbourne firefighter, was critically injured on the job
in a flashover 6 months ago, so I know first hand the pain, fear and confusion
felt by the wives and families of your injured firefighters. My heart goes out
to each and every one of them, because I know exactly how they are feeling.
Accepting the help and support offered from friends and colleagues eases the
burden immensely. It allows the time to concentrate on the most important thing,
the recovery of your loved one.
It is a very long, slow and frustrating road to recovery, but I hope and pray
for each wife, partner and child that you get to bring your man home, as
eventually I did.
We wish each of your injured firefighters strength, comfort and a full recovery.
To their families, we wish them strength and patience.
Kindest Regards,
Elaine & Richard Zapart
Steve please pass on our thoughts to the family and
colleagues of Derek Lovell
From A platoon
Sunbury Fire Station
Victoria
Australia
Hi Steve,
I would like to express my sincere condolences at this sad moment wishing you
and your fellow firefighters all the best at this sad moment.
Yours sincerely
Greg Hill
Fire Officer 2
Greenvale Fire Station
Melbourne Victoria
Australia
Steve, On behalf of “A” platoon Hallam fire station Victoria Australia, I
send our heartfelt sympathy to the workmates and family of the deceased
fire-fighter, secondly our hopes and prayers are for the fire-fighters and their
families who have survived.
We wish them Godspeed in their recovery, please let them and their families know
they are not alone in the brother & sisterhood of the fire services and the
union.
Fire Officer Greg Chapman
Hallam Fire Station
Victoria, Australia
G'day Steve,
as a professional Firefighter with 24 years service with the MFB in Melbourne
Australia I would like to pass on my sincerest condolences to our comrades
involved, their families and their shift mates. Tragedies such as these affect
us all, I ran some skillls maintenance for some of our Hazmat Technicians today
at South Melbourne Fire Station which is our major Hazmat/CBR Station and we
discussed the incident in Hamilton.
To a person we all mentioned how this may have quite easily happened to one or
more of us, Firefighters worldwide are a brotherhood but we feel closer to you
than most because of our Anzac tradition and our great rivalry in the spoting
arenas in which we compete. This message may not carry much weight but we too
mourn the loss of one colleague and the injuries to the rest of the crews
involved, our thoughts and prayers are with you.
On behalf of the MFB Hazmat/CBR Unit please accept our condolences and best
wishes, your loss is our loss!
Regards
Dan Gatt
Acting Commander
MFB Hazmat/CBR Unit
10 Baker Street, Richmond Vic. 3121, Australia.
Dear Colleagues,
May I express my deepest sympathy to the family and to the members of the Union
on the tragic loss of a comrade in the line of duty.
Regards
Station Officer Brian Lowe
MFESB
B platoon.
Steve as a professional fire fighter I would like you to past on my
condolences and best wishes to the fire fighters and families in this stressful
and trying time
Paul Scott
S.O. Broadmeadows fire station
Australia
Dear Steve,
I am writing to express my sadness at learning of the death of one of your
colleagues is the recent coolstore blaze. I am a firefighter in Victoria, and
can imagine how shocking and sad it is for you all. Although we do what many see
as a dangerous job, I know that I still never expect to not go home at the end
of the day.
Please add my name to the many who are thinking of you all at this time.
Regards,
Paula Treacy
Leading Firefighter
CFA
Victoria
Australia
To Steve and Derek,
Just a short note to pass on the sincerest condolences of all firefighters
attached to Maddington Fire Station in Western Australia. It is with great
sorrow that we hear of the loss of one of your colleagues and the injuries to 6
others. It would be greatly appreciated if you can find the time to pass this
email onto the stations involved so they understand that we share their grief
At a tragic time like this, words can not express how close to home this is for
us. As you know many firefighters in Western Australia have worked with many New
Zealand Firefighters during recent USAR Courses in your backyard. Although I am
sure you will receive an email from USAR, as the Manager of the FESA USAR Canine
Section I too pass on my condolences from my handlers and their families
Our thoughts are with you all
Sincerely,
Station Officer Peter Sutton and all Station Officers and Firefighters
Maddington Fire & Rescue Service of WA:
MAXWELL Farrell, HARRIS Neil, POWNALL Regan, O'KEEFE Christopher,
GILLHAM Mick, FORT Stephen, COX Andrew, VAN AALEN Kim, VAN DEN BERGH Keith,
ADRIANO Ivan, BROWN Leslie, LUNN Craig, CRAGG Graham, MCLEAN Andrew, MURRAY Ryan
Photo of Maddington Fire Station, Western Australia on 11 April 2008.
To the Officers and Fire-fighters Of the Hamilton Local
The Officers and Fire-fighters of the Wellington Local offer our sincerest
condolences to you all for the heartbreaking loss of Brother Derek Lovell
Our thoughts are also with brothers Merv, Brian, Dennis, Adrian, Alvin, Dave and
Cameron and all their respective families and truly wish that they all have a
full recovery
This tragedy has and will continue to resonate through the collective hearts of
all firefighters and their families
Wellington Local
Dear Steve
I would like to offer my sincere condolences to yourself and all members of the
NZ fire service at this tragic time, it does bring home the dangers we do face
everyday as firefighters, you are all in our thoughts here in Australia.
Best Wishes
Ian McKenzie
Station Officer - Incident Management Systems Department
Metropolitan Fire Brigade | 456 Albert Street| East Melbourne Vic 3002
On behalf of all the shifts at Burwood Fire Station, Melbourne,
Victoria, Australia, I would like to express our deep sorrow and condolences go
out to your Fire Service and their Families at this sad time.
Our job at times is a dangerous one.
Our thoughts are with you all.
Pete Learmonth
Leading Fire-fighter
23A
Dear Fellow Firefighters,
I served in the New Zealand Fire Service from 1959 to 1976, working through
the ranks at Lower Hutt from rookie to Third Officer, before being appointed
as the inaugural National Director of Training based at Island Bay,
Wellington.
Like every member of the NZFS, I am at this moment grieving at the loss of a
fellow fire fighter and the injuries received by his crew.
Please pass on to the loved ones left behind my sincere condolences at such
a tragic loss and best wishes for a speedy recovery by those who were injured.
Sincerely Lloyd Johns
Former NZFS firefighter, Third Officer Lower Hutt Fire Brigade and National
Director of Training 1972-1976
Our DEEPEST sympathies.....Billy
Chief Billy Goldfeder, EFO
Firefighter Close Calls.Com
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