Ms Cleeland said CFA volunteers worked in extraordinarily dangerous and exhausting conditions, often for long periods without rest, as the fires tore through the region.
“What our CFA crews have done during the Longwood fires is nothing short of extraordinary,” Ms Cleeland said.
“They quite literally stood between our communities and a greater, catastrophic loss.
“Firefighters from local brigades, alongside strike teams from across Victoria, placed themselves in harm’s way to protect our local community.
“These brave men and women have left their own families and communities to come protect ours.
“They worked through intense heat, unpredictable fire behaviour and long, relentless shifts, and because of them, lives and homes were saved.”
Ms Cleeland said the emotional toll on firefighters should not be underestimated.
“These crews were fighting fire while knowing that their own communities were at risk,” she said.
“That is an enormous burden to carry, and it speaks to the courage and selflessness that defines the CFA.”
She also acknowledged the critical role of incident management teams, support crews and partner agencies working behind the scenes.
“Firefighting is not only what happens on the fireground,” Ms Cleeland said.
“The planning, co-ordination and support that sits behind every decision is vital, and those teams deserve recognition and thanks.”
Ms Cleeland said the gratitude felt across the community would endure long after the emergency response had ended.
She encouraged residents to continue supporting local brigades as recovery continues.
“The CFA is built on community,” Ms Cleeland said.
“As we move into recovery, it’s more important than ever that we continue to back the people who stand up for us when it matters most.”
