Brigade Captain Ray Nichols was given a "surprise" birthday do at the Mandorah Pub on Sunday 8 November 2009.

A few friends from Berry Springs, Lambells Lagoon, Livingstone and Bushfires NT, as well as his own Brigade, dropped by to wish him a very happy 60th birthday.

Ray is one of those remarkable volunteers who helps out other Brigades with a lot of their fires, often travelling long distances to do so.

He is also a volunteer driver for the local ambulance, transporting patients at all hours of the day and night.

A great friend and a wonderful member of the community.

Happy Birthday, mate!