Following long-serving captain Rod Byrne’s retirement, David Welch was promoted to captain, leaving the deputy position open. 

Mr Johns is Director of Planning and Environmental Services at Gunnedah Shire Council and comes from a line of firefighters, following in his fathers and grandfather’s footsteps.

He brings a wealth of experience to the role after nine years on the job in the Parkes region, with three serving as deputy.

“I relocated to Gunnedah for work and relinquished my rank as deputy and was able to transfer to a retained firefighter position in Gunnedah and then the deputy role became available,” Mr Johns said.

He said he initially joined due to his family history with firefighting.

“My grandfather and great grandfather were with NSW Fire Brigades in the early 1900s,” Mr Johns said.

“My grandfather retired in the 80s, so there’s almost 70-80 years history there.”

Since then, his love for helping his community has cemented his service to the brigade.

“I really get a kick out of being able to help people. It’s usually rewarding,” Mr Johns said.

“If you have worked your entire career and saved one person, then that makes it worth it.”

He said the Gunnedah crew were a tight knit group and everyone brought their own skill set to the station.