Rooiberg-based firefighter awarded in Canada

A Rooiberg-based firefighter Tonic Matlhare has made the Waterberg and Limpopo proud after he was honoured for being the best crew leader in Canada for the local team.

Matlhare was among the team which was recently deployed to Canada to assist with the suppression of wildfires.

The team consisted of 45 firefighters being five from each province, with Waterberg sending a total of three.

It was a complete surprise to Matlhare to be announced the winner, as there were no nominations prior to the decision.

The 33-year-old Tonic Mokgonane Mahlare was born in the dusty village of Phokwane in Nebo area, Sekhukhune District.

Staying home after completing matric in 2007, due to lack of finances to further studies, did not affect his dream of becoming a role model to his family and his community.

He joined WoF as a firefighter at Nebo in 2011, and in 2012 he was promoted as the chainsaw operator, and crew leader in 2013.

“Through the eight years where he’s been with WoF, he portrayed strong leadership skills, a high level of respect and discipline and he is also a hard worker,” said WoF spokesperson, Matema Gwangwa.

Matlhare said his motivation was the family that he left behind while he went abroad to represent the country.

“I’m honoured that my hard work doesn’t go unnoticed, and I really appreciate the support that I always get from my team and my supervisors,” he added.

— The BEAT