Victorian Fire Rescue Commissioner Ken Block has today advised he is stepping down as head of Fire Rescue Victoria (FRV) due to personal circumstances, effective immediately.
Minister for Emergency Services, Jaclyn Symes said Mr Block has returned to Canada due to significant health issues with his family and wishes to put his family first.
“Mr Block has been instrumental in establishing and leading Fire Rescue Victoria. He has built a highly professional emergency services agency, bringing professional firefighters together under one organisation with community safety at its core,” said Minister Symes.
“I would like to thank Mr Block for his commitment and dedication to the role and wish him and his family all the best for the future.”
FRV Deputy Commissioner Gavin Freeman will continue to act as Fire Rescue Commissioner until a permanent commissioner is appointed.
Mr Block started as Victoria’s inaugural Fire Rescue Commissioner in 2020 and has been instrumental in establishing and leading FRV.
Mr Block has served as a firefighter since 1980 and previously served as Chief Fire Officer of Edmonton Fire Rescue Services, as well as President of the Metropolitan Association of Fire Chiefs and President of the Canadian Association of Fire Chief’s prior to his appointment to FRV.