Family of firefighters

At any time of the day Renwick businessman Rowan Ingpen can go from running a bar to fighting a fire.

Rowan and his family run the Woodbourne Tavern and Hotels, a business that has staff in place to cover him when he’s called to the station.

“My job lends itself well to me being a volunteer firefighter as we have a good team here that can step in at a minute’s notice,” he says.

Being a volunteer firefighter is something he is proud of.

Rowan’s wife Emma hails from Renwick’s Newman family - a family with deep roots in the community and a long history with the Renwick Fire Brigade.

Emma’s grandfather Doug Newman was the first Chief Fire Officer at the Renwick Fire Station and his sons Larry and Allan later joined. Emma’s father Murray says he did not join but has always helped out, assisting with excavation work and fundraising when a new Fire Station was built.

So much so, Murray was made an honorary life member. Murray’s son Tom also serves alongside son-in-law Rowan.

Despite the family connection Rowan says it’s always been something he has wanted to do.

“When I was 18 and working as a mechanic my boss was a firefighter and tried getting me involved, but it just wasn’t the right time then.

“Later, I got to the stage in my life where I could give my time and put in 100 per cent. I felt it was time to learn and give back to my community,” he says.

Rowan joined the Renwick Volunteer Fire Brigade 10 years ago and has attended everything from chemical spills to cardiac arrests.

“One really memorable moment was when we helped to resuscitate a local guy along with St Johns. That was a pretty cool feeling.

“I get a lot of satisfaction knowing that I’ve done a job well and to the best of my ability. I have no regrets what so ever about joining.

“If you have time to offer and a willingness to go through the training, you will reap the same rewards,” he says. Rowan describes the comradery in the brigade as being ‘a big family’.

“It’s like having another family. The support network is awesome and I would encourage anyone interested in firefighting to at least make contact with their local station to find out more. It’s one thing you wouldn’t regret doing,” he says.

To find out more contact the Renwick Volunteer Fire Brigade on 03 572 8019.