Memorial garden opened in honour of fallen firefighter
26/11/2022
A memorial garden to celebrate the life and legacy of fallen Senior Firefighter Louise Hincks will be officially unveiled today outside the Happy Valley CFS Station - a space to be enjoyed by the community in Louise's honour.
The garden - which is located on the grounds of the Happy Valley CFS Station where much-loved and respected brigade member Louise volunteered - has blossomed thanks to generous donations facilitated by the CFS Foundation, State Government and the time of CFS members.
Featuring a plinth stone with a commemoration plaque, garden beds with the official CFS Foundation FireStar Rose and Louise's favourite tree, a cherry blossom, the garden will be open to the public to enjoy the space.
Louise Hincks's brother, Tony Brown said the garden is a beautiful tribute and it is wonderful that it is now open for the entire community to enjoy.
"We are incredibly thankful to everyone for their contribution towards Louise's memorial garden. Louise's spirit and passion for the Country Fire Service, along with her love of the local community will embody her legacy for generations to come," said Mr Brown.
"As an avid gardener herself, we are very proud to have this beautiful garden available as a dedication to our dearest Louise."
CFS Chief Officer Brett Loughlin acknowledged the tremendous work undertaken by members of the Happy Valley Brigade, as well as the CFS Foundation in bringing the garden together.
"It has been incredible to see everyone coming together under such tragic circumstances to create this beautiful space to celebrate Louise's legacy," said Chief Officer Loughlin.
"Louise was a well-loved and respected member of not only the CFS, but the wider emergency services sector, who dedicated her life to helping others, and this garden is a tribute to all that she stood for."
Premier Peter Malinauskas said it was his honour to officially open the garden today.
"Louise Hincks was a hero and I'm incredibly honoured to open this memorial garden to ensure her legacy lives on," said Mr Malinauskas.
"She made the ultimate sacrifice to protect the lives of others and in her duties displayed exactly what it means to be a CFS volunteer."
Members of the public are welcome to visit the garden, which is open year-round and located at Happy Valley CFS, 1-3 Glory Court, Happy Valley SA.
