On the 30th anniversary of Ash Wednesday, more than 100 people have paid tribute to the volunteer fire fighters who have died serving South Australian communities since 1976.

Country Fire Service regional commander Chris Martin said Saturday's memorial service was a "double barrel" anniversary.

"We are recognising the 30th anniversary of Ash Wednesday, when we lost three firefighters, but also recognising that since 1976 we have had another 10 firefighters killed in action," he told AAP on Saturday.

In 1976 the Emergency Fire Service was renamed the CFS and since 2000 annual memorial services have been held at the Mt Lofty summit.

The area was devastated by the Ash Wednesday bushfires which swept through the Adelaide Hills and the state's south-east three decades ago.

It remains the state's worst natural disaster, with 28 people killed, almost 400 homes destroyed and about 200,000 hectares blackened.

Mr Martin said the simple ceremony involved readings from volunteers, a homily from the chaplain, the presentation of floral tributes, the naming of the deceased and a lament from a piper.

"As South Australians we all have a responsibility to reflect on their sacrifice and the anniversary of Ash Wednesday is an appropriate time to do that."

Mr Martin did not know if any of the firefighters involved in the 1983 blazes were at the service, saying they were welcome to come along but not actively pressured into attending.

Emergency Services Minister Michael O'Brien said CFS volunteers were committed to protecting communities not just from bushfires but other risks and emergencies, 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

"This service is about reflecting on the sacrifice of all CFS volunteers who tragically lost their lives before, during and after the Ash Wednesday fires," he said in a statement.

"This includes volunteers who died on duty while attending other emergency incidents, including structure fires, which I believe recognises the diversity of the work undertaken by the CFS."