News Story
A memorial service was held at City Fire Station today in honour of Allan and Anne Bruce who both died recently in a car crash in Queensland. Allan Bruce had a long career in the fire services on both sides of the Tasman and speakers today spoke of his dedication, innovation, humanity and, as a disciplinarian, a stickler for highest standards. He was also a great sportsman, particularly basketball, in which he is the only person to have captained an international team representing both New Zealand and United Kingdom. In some ways our Brigade owes its existence to Allan Bruce, who in the late-1970s as Chief Fire Officer, laid down an ultimatum to a faltering, disjointed, team. "Shape up or ship out - if you decide to up your game I will support you, if you want to fade out we'll have a farewell function!" This focused the minds of the Officers. They decided to give the unit a makeover: Allan Bruce accepted their decision and thereafter always gave his fullest support. That was when we were about 45 years old... we have reached 82. The Brigade was represented at today's service. See also entry for 8th March 2015.
