Aussie sport mourns the tragic death of beloved figure who represented his country and also made his mark as a hero firefighter

Referees in the final match of the NBL Grand Final series between Illawarra and Melbourne will pay tribute to a ‘selfless’ former colleague and hero firefighter who tragically died this week.

Brad Giersch, who officiated more than 400 NBL games over two decades, passed away on Thursday after a battle with a work-related illness. 

A respected figure in Australian basketball, Mr Giersch was inducted into the Basketball NSW Hall of Fame in 2021. 

His officiating career spanned from local competitions in Victoria to some of the biggest matches in the country and overseas.

He refereed six NBL Grand Final Series, 27 WNBL games, and represented Australia at international events including the 2006 Commonwealth Games, FIBA Olympic Qualifiers, and the Albert Schweitzer Tournament in Germany.

‘My first game was his 350th game, so that was nice,’ Olympic referee James Boyer, who worked alongside him, said.

Brad Giersch officiated more than 400 NBL games and represented his country as a referee

Giersch was also a decorated fireman who was first on the scene for the infamous Rozelle building explosion 

Giersch represented Australia as an offical at international events including the 2006 Commonwealth Games and FIBA Olympic Qualifiers

‘He had a massive impact on basketball for a number of years. He was very, very well respected in basketball.’

Known for his integrity and passion for the game, Giersch had a deep commitment to mentoring the next generation of referees. 

In 2016, he famously officiated an under-12s game shortly after calling the NBL Finals Series – an act that Basketball Australia said was a ‘testament to his passion for the game’.

Basketball Australia described him as ‘a truly inspirational person who was revered and respected by all in the basketball community.’

While basketball was a huge part of his life, Giersch also made an extraordinary impact as a firefighter. 

He was a highly respected Station Officer with Fire and Rescue NSW, known for his courage, leadership, and unwavering professionalism.

He was the first arriving officer at the devastating Rozelle explosion and building collapse in 2014, when shop owner Adeel Khan deliberately set fire to his store, claiming the lives of Chris Noble, Bianka O’Brien, and her 11-month-old son Jude.

‘It was pretty sad. Very sad. It was a pretty heavy day,’ Giersch said in a 2020 interview, after attending the funeral of Ms O’Brien and her son.

Friends and family, along with people he has touched in both basketball and firefighting circles have lined up to pay tribute to a life lost way too soon (Giersch is pictured left)

Giersch (left) receives the Commander’s Commendation from NSW Police Assistant Commissioner Mark Jenkins

His leadership during that tragedy earned him formal recognition from Fire and Rescue NSW, along with a Commander’s Commendation from NSW Police Assistant Commissioner Mark Jenkins.

Commissioner Jeremy Fewtrell remembered him as a man of deep character. 

‘Brad was a highly respected firefighter, leader, and mentor who dedicated his career to serving both his colleagues and the community,’ he said.

Giersch also played a key role in the Fire Investigation and Research Unit’s K-9 team. 

His expertise left a lasting mark on major investigations, and colleagues said was always generous with his time, mentoring others in the team.

But beyond his achievements, it was his positivity and resilience that stood out. 

‘More than his skills and experience, Brad was known for his infectious smile and boundless energy, lifting spirits in the toughest moments,’ Commissioner Fewtrell said.

Even in the face of his own health battles, Giersch displayed the same strength and determination he brought to every fire and basketball court.

His daughter Tara said the fire service was a second family to him. 

Giersch started his refereeing journey as a junior and always gave back to junior and community associations 

‘We really appreciate everything you’ve done for Brad during this tough time,’ she said. 

‘He always spoke so highly of the entire team and the wonderful people he met throughout his career.’

Tributes also flowed from Station 411 Oberon, which confirmed Giersch’s passing as an on-duty death. 

‘All our thoughts and condolences go to the family, friends, crewmates and all affected by this loss,’ they posted.

Daughter Renee shared a heartfelt tribute on social media: ‘Love you forever dad. The strongest and most positive man right until the end.’

The NBL has confirmed referees will wear black armbands in Sunday’s Championship Series match to honour his memory. 

‘The NBL sends its heartfelt condolences to Brad’s wife, Louise, and their three children, Renae, Tara and Josh,’ the league said.

A Fire and Rescue NSW funeral with full honours will be held at St Charles Borromeo Catholic Church in Ryde.