OUR HISTORY

Proudly supporting our Members since 1936

The Fire Service Fund, officially established in 1936, has deep roots in the firefighting community. Its foundation was inspired by a long-standing culture of “mates looking after mates” a principle that dates back to the early 1900s, when injured firefighters received informal support from colleagues and leadership.

Under the guidance of Chief Officer Jock Whyte and long-serving Secretary Jack Boyle, the Fund evolved from these early acts of care into a formal organisation, offering structured financial assistance to members and their families. In 1943, the Fund gained official recognition as a “Friendly Society,” allowing it to deliver approved benefits such as sickness, accident, and funeral support.

Over the decades, the Fund adapted to the growing needs of members, from introducing payroll deductions to accommodate expanding benefits, to managing health insurance and eventually partnering with major health providers.

In the 1980s, the Fund began investing in property to better serve members, which included Units and Houses across the State, and within 1-2 hours drive from Adelaide. Today the Fund has rest and rehabilitation properties at Black Point, Middleton, Normanville, and Moonta Bay, assets designed to support members’ wellbeing and be readily available in times of need.

By 1992 the Fund’s “voluntary” system of administration was insufficient to effectively manage and support its members, resulting in the appointment of Its first Manager. Since that time, further growth of the Fund associated with increased administrative demands, governance requirements, and greater member interaction resulted in the appointment of a second Manager under a job share arrangement.

Today, the Fund continues to operate with the same level of commitment to member care and support. It is managed by two staff members, Noel Johnson and Fiona Ward, who are responsible for the day-to-day business operations.

The Fund is overseen by dedicated volunteer Board Members who generously give their time and expertise to serve the membership and preserve the values the Fund was built on. Their ongoing stewardship ensures the Fund remains strong, relevant, and responsive to the needs of its members, just as it has been for over 85 years.