A volunteer firefighter who died in the line of duty at the Green Wattle Creek fire has been remembered as a “hero” and a “selfless” father.
NSW Rural Fire Service (RFS) member Andrew O’Dwyer died at 36 when his fire truck rolled while battling the blaze near Buxton on December 19.
Hundreds of family, friends and RFS members attended the requiem mass in Horsley Park on Tuesday as tributes flowed for the young father.
Dozens of volunteers formed a guard of honour to farewell the fallen firefighter as the firetruck and hearse went past.
O’Dwyer was posthumously awarded the Commissioner’s commendation for extraordinary service and bravery.
Brigade Captain Darren Nation said O’Dwyer, one of his closest friends, was a “rare and beautiful person” who would sacrifice his own life for others.
“The love he had for the fire brigade was as thick as the blood that ran through his veins,” said Nation.
O’Dwyer’s father Errol told the congregation that his son was a free spirit whose greatest achievement was his daughter, 19-months-old Charlotte.
RFS Commissioner Shane Fitzsimmons addressed the toddler in his speech to the congregation. “Charlotte should know her father was a selfless and special man, who only left because he was a hero,” Fitzsimmons said.
The young girl was presented with her father’s service medal and at one point wore his helmet and touched the casket.
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