Pictures of Teacher Matthew Petch is a former volunteer firefighter recently diagnosed with an aggressive cancer. Internationally, his cancer would be covered under firefighter protection laws but not here, and because he was a volunteer, he doesn’t get the same rights and support as career firefighters. Instead, he’s having to resort to crowdfunding for expensive treatment in the US. Matthew is pictured at home with his family Matthew and Helen with their children Oliver (13), Finlay (11), Amelia (8), in Kalamunda, Perth. .
URGENT UPDATE: The tragic loss of volunteer firefighter Matthew Petch, aged 36, has sent shockwaves through the Perth Hills community. Petch, who bravely fought a rare and aggressive bile-duct cancer, passed away over the weekend, as confirmed by the Kalamunda Volunteer Fire and Rescue Service.
Petch’s passing was announced on social media, where the service expressed its deep sorrow, stating, “It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of past colleague Matthew Nigel Petch. Our deepest sympathy to all the family.” His courageous battle highlighted significant discrepancies in worker protections for volunteer firefighters, and he became a symbol of advocacy in the face of adversity.
From 2016 to 2024, Petch dedicated himself to responding to hundreds of emergencies, including blazes and car crashes. Despite his extensive service, he faced a heartbreaking struggle for compensation when diagnosed with cancer, which is not recognized under Western Australia’s firefighter protection laws. This lack of recognition meant Petch had to rely on crowdfunding to secure treatment, with an appeal led by his brother, Jonathan Petch, raising over $200,000.
Jonathan expressed the family’s devastation: “Our hearts are shattered by the loss of the loving father, husband, son, and brother. There are no words that truly capture the sheer heartbreak we are experiencing over the loss of our beautiful Matthew.” He emphasized Petch’s legacy as an inspiring primary school teacher and a passionate advocate for the health of volunteer firefighters.
The Kalamunda Volunteer Bush Fire Brigade also mourned the loss, stating, “He was the embodiment of what it means to be an upstanding member of our local community, and he will be greatly missed.” Community members are rallying together to honor Petch’s memory and the significant impact he made during his life.
Local MP Adam Hort expressed his condolences, remarking on the community’s sorrow over this “truly devastating news.” He noted, “Matthew was a true gentleman and gave so much to our community. My thoughts are with Helen and their children, the broader Petch clan, and our Kalamunda VFRS. You will never be forgotten mate.”
As the community grieves, Petch’s story emphasizes the urgent need for reform in firefighter protections, especially for volunteers who face similar health risks. The emotional tributes pouring in reflect the profound impact he had on those around him, making it clear that Matthew Petch’s legacy will live on.
Stay tuned for further updates on the community’s efforts to honor his memory and push for necessary changes in firefighter protection laws.
