Today marks a significant milestone for Fire Rescue Safety Australia (FRSA) as we proudly celebrate our 20th anniversary. Founded on this day in 2004 by close friends Gary Ashwood and Rob Male, FRSA began its journey as a small two-man operation in a modest warehouse in Perth. Their shared vision, unwavering commitment, and hard work have not only propelled the company’s growth but have also shaped FRSA into a trusted leader in the industry.
From the outset, Gary and Rob understood the critical need for quality equipment and services in the emergency response sector. Their goal was to create a company that could provide reliable solutions “anytime, anywhere.” As the business took off in Western Australia, it became clear that expansion was on the horizon.
In 2007, FRSA made its first major leap by establishing a branch in Brisbane, marking the start of its expansion into the east coast. Initially a one-man strategy, the Brisbane branch set the stage for future growth. By 2012, FRSA had further diversified its offerings by launching its asset management services, allowing clients to manage their purchasing and servicing needs all in one place.
The momentum continued with the opening of an Adelaide branch in 2014, further solidifying FRSA's presence on the east coast. The company’s major breakthrough came in 2016, when FRSA expanded into Sydney and Melbourne, fuelled by the exclusive strategic partnership with Holmatro Rescue. This partnership was a game changer, enhancing FRSA's capabilities and offerings.
In 2019, FRSA took a significant step forward by joining the Bunzl family. This acquisition provided the resources and support needed to explore new opportunities and accelerate growth. With Bunzl’s backing, FRSNZ was established in 2020, with a dedicated team operating across both the North and South Islands.
It hasn’t been an easy journey, but thanks to our great team, reliable supply partners, and hard work, we have achieved consistent year-on-year growth throughout our history. Today, FRSA boasts a dedicated team of 62 staff members across both FRSA and FRSNZ. The company has come a long way from its humble beginnings, but the core vision remains unchanged. We are committed to providing exceptional service and equipment that professionals can rely on, ensuring that we remain a dependable partner for our clients.
As we celebrate this remarkable 20-year journey, we are excited about what the future holds. The landscape of the industry is ever-evolving, and FRSA is poised to meet new challenges head-on. Our commitment to quality, service, and innovation will guide us as we continue to expand and enhance our offerings.
On behalf of the team, FRSA’s Managing Director, Mick Richards, wants to give a special thank you to Gary, Rob, and their families for the vision, investment, sacrifices, and dedication they have shown over the past 20 years. Their contributions have shaped FRSA into what it is today, and on behalf of the FRSA and Bunzl team, Mick extends his gratitude.
Thank you to all our clients, partners, and employees who have been part of this incredible journey. Here’s to the next 20 years of excellence at Fire Rescue Safety Australia!