Raymond Winfield: Yalgoo firefighter Razor recognised at Canberra memorial following death in blaze last year

Yalgoo Bushfire Brigade’s Raymond “Razor” Winfield lost his life fighting a fire last year after more than three decades on the job. National Volunteer Week has started and it is a time to recognise public servants and those, like Mr Winfield, who give their time selflessly, even at times putting themselves at risk to help others. Mr Winfield, born in 1947 in Manjimup, was a volunteer firefighter from his mid-teens. After moving to Yalgoo in 1992, he began as a machine operator for the Shire of Yalgoo and a volunteer with both the Yalgoo Bushfire Brigade and St John WA. He was often seen driving a grader during fire emergencies and was known for his expertise and bravery. Mr Winfield lost his life while on duty at Mt Gibson Sanctuary in January 2023, due to a burn over incident. He was 76 and leaves behind his widow Sandra, two daughters, and a son. The Yalgoo Shire council held a minute’s silence in his memory during their February 2023 meeting, where deputy shire president Gail Trenfield described him as “a loved and valued employee and member of the community who contributed much to this region over many years.” On Thursday, May 2, when Mr Winfield and his family would have celebrated his 77th birthday, he was honoured at a special service at the National Emergency Services Memorial in Canberra. Mrs Winfield said her husband was always motivated to help his community, and would be there to help someone in a flash. “During the fire where he sadly passed away, Ray worked incredibly hard to protect the Mt Gibson Sanctuary and I hope this is how he’s remembered by the community,” she said. “Attending the memorial services in Perth and Canberra has been extremely emotional, but I’m so proud that Ray is being acknowledged and it means a lot to his children and grandchildren.” National Volunteer Week runs from May 20-26.