Community
26 December, 2025
Praised for a lifetime of service
Member for Wollondilly Judy Hannan has paid tribute to Alan Kerslake for his lifetime of commitment to the rural fire service.
Member for Wollondilly Judy Hannan has paid tribute to Alan Kerslake for his lifetime of commitment to the rural fire service.
Mrs Hannan posted a message on social media acknowledging Mr Kerslake’s dedication to the RFS for more than 70 years.
Mr Kerslake – a founding member of the Alpine/Aylmerton rural fire brigade – passed away on December 4.
His funeral was held at St Steven’s Anglican Church in Mittagong on Thursday, December 18.
He was described at the service as a man of honour and as someone who was deeply respected by all who new him.
Mr Kerslake joined the rural fire service as a 13-year-old alongside his father and other local residents who recognised the need for an Alpine/Aylmerton brigade.
He served as the brigade’s Captain for 11 years, Senior Deputy Captain for a total of 39 years and most recently as a Deputy Captain.
He also held the position of Fire Permit Officer for 19 years.
Mr Kerslake received a number of honours along the way including brigade life membership, the RFS Commissioners Commendation for Service, National Medal – 4th Clasp, RFS Long Service Medal – 6th Clasp, National Emergency Medal, Premiers Bush Fire Citation and the Les Lambert Memorial Achievement Award.
RFS District Manager Superintendent Daniel Osborne said words couldn’t fully capture the magnitude of Mr Kerslake’s service but said his commitment to volunteerism, his community and his brigade was “without doubt second to none”.
Superintendent Osborne said Mr Kerslake was an inspiring leader, a true mentor and an absolute gentleman.
He said Mr Kerslake’s individual and family legacy was “amongst the strongest and most respected across the Southern Highlands and indeed NSW”.
RFS volunteers helped form a guard of honour as Mr Kerslake’s coffin was carried from the church.
Read More: Southern Highlands, Aylmerton