Bracebridge Fire Chief Murray Medley was presented with the Alf Stone Award by the Ontario Association of Fire Chiefs (OAFC) at their annual conference and tradeshow in Mississauga.

Alf Stone was a long-standing OAFC partner and loyal supporter of the association. He was a gentleman, leader, mentor, hard worker, and partner. His namesake award recognizes members who exhibit the same work ethic as he did and demonstrate leadership, honesty and respect.

Chief Medley has left an impression on the Bracebridge Fire Department during his 45-year career. As Chief, he made significant impacts that improved equipment and safety, modernized procedures, and ensured ongoing success and efficiency.

“Congratulations to Chief Murray Medley on this achievement, I can think of no one more deserving of the Alf Stone Award. Murray’s professionalism, enthusiasm, dedication, and vision over his 45-year career with Bracebridge Fire has contributed to it being the future-ready department it is today. Chief’s passion for fire services and his team grows every day, and his commitment to supporting the team and leading by example is a true representation of him as a leader.” says Rick Maloney, Mayor, Town of Bracebridge.

It’s Chief Medley’s guidance, steadiness and expertise that have made him a dedicated leader who has supported the community through its most challenging times. His passion for fire and community safety is admirable and permeates throughout the department.

Chief Medley epitomizes the idea of leading by example. As a team comprised of Volunteer Firefighters, he continuously empowers them to see themselves as leaders, to recognize the difference and impact they have on the community, and to continually improve themselves through training and leadership opportunities. The Chief’s approach to fostering a culture of teamwork and belonging has ensured the fire stations are welcome safe spaces that feel like ones second family, and he works hard to maintain that feeling.

“To say that I was shocked by this recognition would be an understatement. It is an absolute honour to be recognized with the Alf Stone Award from the Ontario Association of Fire Chiefs. I have cherished every day of my time with the Bracebridge Fire Department and have had the opportunity to work with so many amazing colleagues. My success in this role is entirely due to the ongoing support and success of the entire Town of Bracebridge team. I am so proud of what we have accomplished together, and it has been a privilege to serve the community,” says Murray Medley, Bracebridge Fire Chief.

The Ontario Association of Fire Chiefs represents the chief fire officers of the 437 fire departments in the Province of Ontario. These chief officers are ultimately responsible, by statute, for the management and delivery of fire, rescue, and emergency response to the 15 million residents of Ontario.

Photo via Town of Bracebridge