St Florians Day 2018

Commissioner’s Commendation for Service (Individual)

Group Captain Brian Ayliffe AFSM

Cobargo Brigade, Far South Coast, Region South

During his 60 years of active service, Group Captain Brian Ayliffe AFSM has shown exceptional dedication to the NSW Rural Fire Service, the Cobargo Brigade and the community.

Group Captain Ayliffe has demonstrated an untiring devotion to the protection of people, property and the environment, both locally and interstate. He undertakes out of area work confidently and capably and provides leadership and effective control in difficult situations as a Brigade Captain, Group Captain and Divisional Commander. He has a keen ability to assess the risk to his crew and community and to take appropriate action.

Group Captain Ayliffe’s detailed knowledge of the local area is invaluable when locating and fighting fires in remote bushland areas in south-eastern NSW. This knowledge, combined with his experience and exceptional willingness has proved invaluable in particular during the early stages of major interface fires at Batemans Bay and Nowra from the late 1980s through to the early 2000s.

Group Captain Ayliffe has held or still holds major roles including Brigade Captain (for over 32 years), Group Captain (for over 42 years) and Fire Investigator – Wildfire (since 2002).  Since 2006, he has been Chairman of the Bega Valley Bushfire Management Committee.  As Chairman, Group Captain Ayliffe has brought all combat agencies together in the very early stages of an escalating fire to ensure the best outcome for the community.  In addition, he works hard to encourage and welcome members from the local Aboriginal Land Council and other community groups.

Group Captain Ayliffe is an instructor and assessor for Rural Fire Driver, Village Firefighter and Advanced Firefighter certification.  He has generously devoted his time, knowledge and experience to training fellow firefighters.  He inspires and motivates members in their roles in the NSW Rural Fire Service.

In 1981, following the council amalgamation of the Municipality of Bega, the Imlay Shire Council and the Mumbulla Shire Council to form the Bega Valley Shire Council, Group Captain Ayliffe worked diligently to develop a sound and united district culture across all three of the old shires.

Group Captain Ayliffe’s wealth of experience, his enduring commitment to the NSW Rural Fire Service, his concern for the welfare and safety of his community, and his ongoing dedication is commendable.

Group Captain Brian Ayliffe AFSM is a worthy recipient of the Commissioner’s Commendation for Service.

Deputy Captain Bruce Davies

Jerrabomberra Creek, Lake George Zone, Region South

Deputy Captain Bruce Davies joined the NSW Rural Fire Service in 1990 and was a member of Burra Brigade before transferring to Jerrabomberra Creek Brigade in 2005.  Deputy Captain Davies is an active member of both brigades and attends numerous local incidents as well as out of area deployments.

Since 2010, Deputy Captain Davies has made significant contributions to Remote Area Firefighting (RAF) within the Lake George Zone Remote Area Firefighting Team (RAFT). He is also the coordinator and a key member of the RFS RAFT Training Group.  Deputy Captain Davies has been instrumental in building the size and capability of the Lake George RAFT, ensuring team members maintain their training and qualifications and are ready for response on short notice.

Deputy Captain Davies conducts the Operate in Remote Environments courses and assessments for the Remote Area Firefighting and Specialised Operations.  He has been key in assisting in the training and development of members in RAF teams in Cooma–Monaro, Southern Tablelands and across other regions.

Deputy Captain Davies has stepped up to manage large RAF teams during substantial deployments including the 2016 Tasmanian Deployment and the 2017 Canada Deployment.   He was one of two team leaders for the forty-strong RFS RAF team.

Deputy Captain Davies has undertaken many RAFT and Remote Arial Response Team (RART) deployments.  He is among the first to put up his hand when a request is received and willingly takes on the role of coordinating the deployment.

Deputy Captain Davies is a RART Crew Leader, but he often steps back from that role to mentor and develop future crew leaders.  He is also a Down the Wire Technician (DTW) and assists in the training of DTW operators.

Deputy Captain Davies always works beyond what is expected of him and is widely respected for his knowledge, his can-do attitude and strong work ethic.

Deputy Captain Davies’ dedication to the NSW RFS and consistent ability to operate at a high level especially within the RAFT sphere is inspirational and is to be commended.

Deputy Captain Bruce Davies is a worthy recipient of the Commissioner’s Commendation for Service.

Captain Stephen Garbutt

Wyrallah Brigade, Northern Rivers Zone, Region North

Captain Stephen Garbutt joined the NSW Rural Fire Service Wyrallah Brigade in the Northern Rivers Zone in April 1987. He saw an opportunity to help his local community by undertaking training and supporting and encouraging younger members of the Brigade.

In 2006, he was appointed Senior Deputy Captain and in 2007 he was appointed Captain. In 2008, he also took on the role of Permit Issuing Officer.  He retains these two roles due to the high level of trust and leadership he shows to his members and his standing in the community. Captain Garbutt is always keen to pass on his extensive knowledge in fire and leadership and shares his experiences with new and younger members.

During his membership with the Wyrallah brigade, Captain Garbutt has attended numerous incidents and is always one of the first members to offer himself for out of area deployments, having provided assistance in Victoria, Western Australia, Queensland and within New South Wales.

Captain Garbutt is a successful builder and project manager for a large construction company and he saw an opportunity to assist the NSW Rural Fire Service using his industry skills and knowledge to advance the upgrade and ongoing maintenance of the Fire Control Centre and Brigade facilities. Captain Garbutt has become an integral part of the team and his input into project management is held in high regard by Council officers and members. His tenacity, ongoing drive to achieve value for money and his extensive industry experience has resulted in considerable cost savings for the Zone, which in turn has led to opportunities for other projects to be undertaken and completed.

Captain Garbutt recently accepted the role of Coordinator for the Secondary School Cadet Program within the Zone.  His success coordinating and conducting the initial program convinced him to plan and run future programs.

Captain Stephen Garbutt is a worthy recipient of the Commissioner’s Commendation for Service.

Firefighter Samuel Hatch

Tamworth Support Brigade, Tamworth District, Region North

On 11 October 2017, Firefighter Samuel (Sam) Hatch and Firefighter John Tucker were travelling from Tamworth to Sydney on NSW Rural Fire Service business.

At approximately 0750hours when they were just south of Aberdeen on the New England Highway, Firefighter Hatch noticed a white Mack truck being driven in a dangerous manner causing vehicles to veer off the highway. To avoid a collision, Firefighter Hatch pulled his vehicle off the highway and allowed the truck to pass.  They became very concerned for other motorists and contacted 000 to report the driver.  

On their approach to Singleton they realised that the truck was behind them again and they got off the road to allow the police to pursue.  

On their arrival at George Street Singleton, Firefighters Hatch and Tucker came across a major incident scene.  Vehicles were strewn across the road with people lying around the vehicles and on the footpath.  The truck was a further 200 metres down the road, crashed into a power pole and on fire.  

With limited resources in their support vehicle, Firefighters Hatch and Tucker immediately pulled over to assist people who were trapped in a vehicle, during which time the truck exploded.  After rendering first aid to the trapped occupants, they then focused their efforts on the truck that was on fire.  There were people in close proximity to the fire who were in danger.  The truck, which was carrying fertiliser, was situated directly across from a fuel station and was a major concern.  Firefighters Hatch and Tucker put themselves at risk by moving people away from the burning truck, setting up an exclusion zone, and evacuating and shutting down the fuel station for safety.  They then proceeded to treat injured people who were in vehicles and buildings.  

Firefighters Hatch and Tucker started to organise scene management, which allowed a quick and comprehensive handover to the other emergency services when they arrived on scene.

Firefighter Samuel Hatch is a worthy recipient of the Commissioner’s Commendation for Service.

Captain Neil Percival (Chaplain)

Broughton Vale/Berry Brigade, Shoalhaven, Region South

Captain Neil Percival (Chaplain) joined the Broughton Vale/Berry brigade in 2003.  At this time, he was appointed as the first chaplain to the Shoalhaven District, a role he fulfilled up to the present.

Since his appointment, Captain Percival has provided valuable support to both volunteer and staff members during many situations including conducting marriage ceremonies. Captain Percival has also provided pastoral care and support to members and brigades during difficult times of grief and traumatic loss, including visiting sick members at home or in hospital and conducting numerous funerals for members and their families.

In 2015, Captain Percival provided exceptional support to a member who was in Shoalhaven Hospital and in need of time critical medical treatment in Sydney. As no ambulances were available, he drove the round trip of 350 kilometres to transport the member from the Shoalhaven Hospital emergency department to St Vincent’s Hospital in Sydney.

Captain Percival has also provided tremendous support to volunteers during deployments, assisted brigades working through internal interpersonal issues and provided advocacy and personal support to members.

Captain Percival actively promotes the Chaplaincy Service by educating members about the assistance programs available to them, while continuing to serve as an active volunteer firefighter where he has earnt the trust, respect and support of Service members.

Captain Neil Percival (Chaplain) is a worthy recipient of the Commissioner’s Commendation for Service.

Firefighter Shirley Snowden

Tinonee Brigade, Mid Coast Team, Region East

Firefighter Shirley Snowden joined the Tinonee Bush Fire Brigade in 1971 along with her husband William Snowden AFSM.

Firefighter Snowden’s primary contribution has been in Operations Support, communication, catering and brigade administration. She was the brigade focal point for the receipt and distribution of information between members occupied on the fire ground and their families.

Firefighter Snowden, for 28 years, was responsible for organising initial and relief firefighting crews and nearby brigades for assistance, there being no Fire Communications Centre to coordinate those functions as there is today.

Firefighter Snowden spent many sleepless nights in the organisation of others and in the preparation and presentation of onsite meals and refreshments for firefighters on the ground.  She continued this role well after the commencement of the Rural Fire Service.

Firefighter Snowden’s husband William was recently awarded the Australian Fire Service Medal and there is no doubt this achievement was made possible by her support, dedication and shared responsibility to the primary functions of the Rural Fire Service.

Firefighter Snowden’s contribution to all aspects of Tinonee Brigade’s administration now exceeds 45 years and her contribution in hours is incalculable.  She is an outstanding volunteer and is held in the highest regard by members of the Tinonee Brigade.

Firefighter Shirley Snowden is a worthy recipient of the Commissioner’s Commendation for Service.

Senior Deputy Captain Samuel Tout

Murringo Brigade, South West Slopes Zone, Region West

Senior Deputy Captain Samuel Tout has been a member of the NSW RFS since 1996 and is the current Senior Deputy Captain of the Murringo Rural Fire Brigade.

For the past nine years, Senior Deputy Captain Tout has undertaken the role of Cadet Coordinator for the South West Slopes Zone (SWSZ).

His continuous dedication and commitment to the program has led the South West Slopes Zone Cadet Team in achieving multiple top five place finishes at both State and National Cadet firefighting championships during his tenure. In 2011 and 2017, Senior Deputy Captain Tout’s leadership, mentoring and team management was pivotal to the SWSZ Cadet Team’s overall first place at the National Cadet Championships held at Myuna and in 2010 the team won first place in the State Championships. While training the SWSZ Cadet Team to be top competitors, Senior Deputy Captain Tout also makes sure the cadets enjoy themselves while remaining competitive during the events.

Senior Deputy Captain Tout was recently awarded the 2017 NSW Volunteer of the Year for the South Coast and Southern Inland Region and was also awarded the 2016 Citizen of the Year at the Young Australia Day Ceremony.

In addition to his role as Cadet Coordinator and Senior Deputy Captain of the Murringo Rural Fire Brigade, Senior Deputy Captain Tout is also an active member of the South West Slopes Zone training committee, delivering chainsaw and rural fire driving programs. Senior Deputy Captain Tout’s dedication and commitment to the SWSZ Cadet Team has assisted in developing young members into excellent firefighters and well-rounded members of the NSW Rural Fire Service.

Senior Deputy Captain Tout is a worthy recipient of the Commissioner’s Commendation for Service.

Firefighter John Tucker

Tamworth Support Brigade, Tamworth District, Region North

On 11 October 2017, Firefighter John Tucker and Firefighter Samuel (Sam) Hatch were travelling from Tamworth to Sydney on NSW Rural Fire Service business.

At approximately 0750hours when they were just south of Aberdeen on the New England Highway, Firefighter Hatch noticed a white Mack truck being driven in a dangerous manner causing vehicles to veer off the highway. To avoid a collision, Firefighter Hatch pulled his vehicle off the highway and allowed the truck to pass.  They became very concerned for other motorists and contacted 000 to report the driver.  

On their approach to Singleton they realised that the truck was behind them again and they got off the road to allow the police to pursue.  

On their arrival at George Street Singleton, Firefighters Tucker and Hatch came across a major incident scene.  Vehicles were strewn across the road with people lying around the vehicles and on the footpath.  The truck was a further 200 metres down the road, crashed into a power pole and on fire.  

With limited resources in their support vehicle, Firefighters Tucker and Hatch immediately pulled over to assist people who were trapped in a vehicle, during which time the truck exploded.  After rendering first aid to the trapped occupants, they then focused their efforts on the truck that was on fire.  There were people in close proximity to the fire who were in danger.  The truck, which was carrying fertiliser, was situated directly across from a fuel station and was a major concern.  Firefighters Tucker and Hatch put themselves at risk by moving people away from the burning truck, setting up an exclusion zone, and evacuating and shutting down the fuel station for safety.  They then proceeded to treat injured people who were in vehicles and buildings.  

Firefighters Tucker and Hatch started to organise scene management, which allowed a quick and comprehensive handover to the other emergency services when they arrived on scene.

Firefighter John Tucker is a worthy recipient of the Commissioner’s Commendation for Service.

Commissioner’s Certificate of Commendation (Individual)

Inspector William Britt

Bland Temora Zone, Region West

On Tuesday 10 October 2017, Inspector William Britt heard a call for help from a man inside the Shell Roadhouse Restaurant at West Wyalong where a woman had collapsed and was having a convulsion.

Inspector Britt ran to offer assistance to the patient in what he described as an “end-of-life convulsion”.  Inspector Britt rolled the patient over to instigate CPR. He asked an onlooker, who was a nurse, to continue CPR while he raced to grab an AED from his RFS vehicle.

Inspector Britt removed the patient’s chest clothing and applied the AED pads. The AED recommended CPR and, after two minutes, the AED advised to stop CPR and to “shock patient”.  Moments after the second shock, NSW Ambulance Service arrived on scene. Inspector Britt assisted the paramedics by restraining the patient as she had Return of Spontaneous Circulation – a lack of oxygen to the brain had caused the patient to be very confused and combative.

Inspector Britt continued to assist NSW Ambulance paramedics in gaining observations and restraining the patient while they administered drugs to calm the patient to prepare her for transfer to the stretcher and out of the restaurant.

The NSW Ambulance Service confirmed the patient had been transferred to West Wyalong Hospital by ambulance, then transferred to Wagga Regional Referral Hospital via helicopter and subsequently taken to the Catheter Lab within Wagga Hospital for further treatment.

The patient is now doing well due to the swift actions of Inspector Britt and the assisting nurse.

Inspector William Britt is a worthy recipient of the Commissioner’s Certificate of Commendation.

Mr Lindsey Flynn  

NSW RFS Headquarters

On Friday 23 August 2017 at approximately 1330hours, a loud bang could be heard outside NSW RFS Headquarters. A concrete truck and motor vehicle had collided. A NSW RFS staff member, Mr Aaron Howard, was walking by and immediately assisted the member of the public, who was slumped over the steering wheel. He was unresponsive, had no pulse and was not breathing.

NSW RFS first aid trained personnel Mr Scott Hoy and Mr Lindsey Flynn quickly arrived on the scene. An ambulance was called and with their approval, Mr Hoy and Mr Flynn moved the driver out of the vehicle. Mr Flynn immediately commenced CPR while Mr Hoy established an airway and deployed oxygen bag and mask.  Mr Flynn and Mr Hoy continued to rotate and perform CPR until Fire and Rescue NSW and NSW Ambulance arrived on scene to take over treatment. Unfortunately, the member of the public suffered a fatal cardiac arrest and was pronounced deceased at the scene due to multiple trauma injuries sustained in the accident.

The member of the public was given the best possible chance of survival by the quick actions of Messrs Hoy, Flynn and Howard as first responders and in their provision of CPR and oxygen before FRNSW and NSW Ambulance arrived.

Unfortunately, the driver did not survive because of the extent of the injuries sustained.  Nevertheless, Messrs Hoy, Flynn and Howard deserve to be commended for their quick and decisive actions in responding to a member of the community in what were very difficult and confronting circumstances.

Mr Lindsey Flynn is a worthy recipient of the Commissioner’s Certificate of Commendation.

Mr Aaron Howard

NSW RFS Headquarters

On Friday 23 August 2017 at approximately 1330hours, a loud bang could be heard outside NSW RFS Headquarters. A concrete truck and motor vehicle had collided. A NSW RFS staff member, Mr Aaron Howard, was walking by and immediately assisted the member of the public, who was slumped over the steering wheel. He was unresponsive, had no pulse and was not breathing.

NSW RFS first aid trained personnel Mr Scott Hoy and Mr Lindsey Flynn quickly arrived on the scene. An ambulance was called and with their approval, Mr Hoy and Mr Flynn moved the driver out of the vehicle. Mr Flynn immediately commenced CPR while Mr Hoy established an airway and deployed oxygen bag and mask.  Mr Flynn and Mr Hoy continued to rotate and perform CPR until Fire and Rescue NSW and NSW Ambulance arrived on scene to take over treatment. Unfortunately, the member of the public suffered a fatal cardiac arrest and was pronounced deceased at the scene due to multiple trauma injuries sustained in the accident.

The member of the public was given the best possible chance of survival by the quick actions of Messrs Hoy, Flynn and Howard as first responders and in their provision of CPR and oxygen before FRNSW and NSW Ambulance arrived.

Unfortunately, the driver did not survive because of the extent of the injuries sustained.  Nevertheless, Messrs Hoy, Flynn and Howard deserve to be commended for their quick and decisive actions in responding to a member of the community in what were very difficult and confronting circumstances.

Mr Scott Hoy

NSW RFS Headquarters

On Friday 23 August 2017 at approximately 1330hours, a loud bang could be heard outside NSW RFS Headquarters. A concrete truck and motor vehicle had collided. A NSW RFS staff member, Mr Aaron Howard, was walking by and immediately assisted the member of the public, who was slumped over the steering wheel. He was unresponsive, had no pulse and was not breathing.

NSW RFS first aid trained personnel Mr Scott Hoy and Mr Lindsey Flynn quickly arrived on the scene. An ambulance was called and with their approval, Mr Hoy and Mr Flynn moved the driver out of the vehicle. Mr Flynn immediately commenced CPR while Mr Hoy established an airway and deployed oxygen bag and mask.  Mr Flynn and Mr Hoy continued to rotate and perform CPR until Fire and Rescue NSW and NSW Ambulance arrived on scene to take over treatment. Unfortunately, the member of the public suffered a fatal cardiac arrest and was pronounced deceased at the scene due to multiple trauma injuries sustained in the accident.

The member of the public was given the best possible chance of survival by the quick actions of Messrs Hoy, Flynn and Howard as first responders and in their provision of CPR and oxygen before FRNSW and NSW Ambulance arrived.

Unfortunately, the driver did not survive because of the extent of the injuries sustained.  Nevertheless, Messrs Hoy, Flynn and Howard deserve to be commended for their quick and decisive actions in responding to a member of the community in what were very difficult and confronting circumstances.  

Mr Scott Hoy is a worthy recipient of the Commissioner’s Certificate of Commendation.

Firefighter Rowena McGregor

Hydes Creek Brigade, Mid North Coast Team, Region North

In March 2017, Firefighter Rowena McGregor of Hydes Creek Brigade was deployed to Lismore as part of the Mid North Coast Team to assist with the floods in and around Lismore. As were many NSW RFS members, Firefighter McGregor was confronted by the magnitude of these floods and the devastation caused to the local communities.

During her deployment, Firefighter McGregor assisted a woman, who was doing it particularly tough. Firefighter McGregor spent time with her reassuring and assisting her and organising follow up visits from other NSW RFS members including the chaplains.

On returning home after her deployment, Firefighter McGregor organised for the woman to receive additional financial support and resources.  She also followed up with a personal visit to ensure that she was doing okay and to deliver some more goods.

Firefighter McGregor’s actions both during and after the floods have had an extremely positive and long lasting impact on this member of the public. Firefighter McGregor has shown a strength of character that reflects just how wonderful our members are in times of loss and devastation. Firefighter McGregor has brought much credit to herself and the NSW RFS by going above and beyond what could be expected of an RFS member.

Firefighter Rowena McGregor is a worthy recipient of the Commissioner’s Certificate of Commendation.

Firefighter John Sandland

Tabourie Brigade, Shoalhaven, Region South

Firefighter John Sandland has been a member of Tabourie Brigade, Shoalhaven for four years and is a highly dedicated member who is committed to serving his community.

On 6 September 2017, John responded to a call to Tabourie Beach where a male member of the public had been dragged from the water unconscious after a suspected heart attack. Firefighter Sandland collected the defibrillator and ran to the beach to perform CPR and defibrillation on the man until NSW Ambulance officers arrived. Regretfully, despite all the efforts the man could not be revived.

Throughout the entire emergency, Firefighter Sandland conducted himself in an exemplary manner. He remained calm, courteous and focused during this complex emergency.  Firefighter Sandland had to interact with the public, distressed people on the beach, and then hand the incident over to NSW Ambulance officers.

Under challenging and difficult circumstances, Firefighter Sandland’s actions in trying to resuscitate the member of the public show both his commitment to the community and the efficacy of his recently completed training. Firefighter Sandland displayed the highest standards of professionalism and brought credit upon himself and the NSW RFS.

Firefighter John Sandland is a worthy recipient of the Commissioner’s Certificate of Commendation.

Commissioner’s Unit Citation for Service

Northern Rivers Aviation Support Brigade

Northern Rivers Zone, Region North

On Sunday 4 June 2017, members of the Northern Rivers Aviation Support Brigade, Firefighters Anthony Nestor, Lindsay Low, Thomas (Mark) Millgate and Jennifer Hankinson, were undertaking routine maintenance of the Brigade’s aviation firefighting equipment at the Northern Rivers Fire Control Centre Airbase located at Casino Airport.

While undertaking pumping activities associated with recirculating the retardant tanks on the airbase, Firefighter Jennifer Hankinson, appeared to suffer a medical episode that resulted in her falling to the ground and becoming unresponsive. Firefighters Nestor, Low and Millgate observed her fall and after immediately checking Jennifer for her vital signs, they identified she was not breathing and had difficulty finding a pulse. Firefighters Nestor and Millgate commenced Cardio Pulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) while Firefighter Low proceeded to the storage shed to collect the Defibrillator and call for an ambulance.

Upon returning to where his fellow members were performing CPR on Jennifer, Firefighter Low took over from Firefighter Millgate who was performing Cardiac Compressions. By this stage, an ambulance had arrived from Casino and the members were assisted by two paramedics in attempting to resuscitate Jennifer and obtain a very weak heartbeat. Fifteen minutes later a doctor and paramedics arrived on scene by the Westpac Rescue Helicopter to provide much needed medical assistance.

Firefighter Jennifer Hankinson was stabilised enough to be transported by road ambulance to Lismore Base Hospital in a serious condition for further medical treatment.

Firefighter Jennifer Hankinson unfortunately did not regain consciousness and passed away in the early hours of Monday 5 June 2017.

The direct actions of performing lifesaving CPR from the onset by Firefighters Nestor, Low and Millgate, although unable to revive their fellow team member and friend, gave Jennifer’s family time to say goodbye and make the decision to donate Jennifer’s organs for the transplant program.

Firefighters Nestor, Low and Millgate put in extraordinary efforts to preserve their colleague’s life. Their actions exemplified how their extensive training and instincts to preserve life came to the fore in such an intense and traumatic situation.

The Northern Rivers Aviation Support Brigade are worthy recipients of the Commissioner’s Unit Citation for Service.

Commissioner’s Certificate of Commendation (UNIT)

Castlereagh Zone Rural Fire Brigades and Cassilis Brigade

Castlereagh Zone & Liverpool Range Zone, Region North

The “Sir Ivan Fire” started on Saturday 11 February 2017 at 1220hrs under an extreme fire danger rating.  Due to the hazardous weather conditions, numerous properties were under threat and crews worked extremely hard to bring the fire under near containment leading into Sunday’s catastrophic fire danger.

By Sunday 12 February, the fire was already burning uncontained on the landscape and the volunteers faced a forecast of the worst fire weather ever predicted in New South Wales.

At approximately 1100hrs the forecast northwesterly winds of up to 120 kilometres per hour arrived and were gaining in strength. The uncontrollable fire weather conditions saw the fire break containment lines, first with one spot fire then shortly after more spot fires spread quickly to the south-east.

Volunteers were faced with a fast moving and uncontrollable fire placing lives in danger and property at risk. These members were enduring a day that no one should face, however these crews put their own safety on the line to protect what they could.
By mid afternoon, after causing property and stock losses, the fire was now moving to the south-west putting small towns and many people in danger of direct impact. Crews were immediately dispatched to Leadville, Coolah and Talbragar Valley for property protection.

In total 55,000 hectares were burnt, 35 homes, one church, one community hall and 131 outbuildings were destroyed. Damage was sustained to 11 homes and 42 outbuildings. Losses also included approximately 5,700 kilometres of fencing, 2000 sheep, 56 cattle, 90 goats and a number of domestic pets.

Despite the conditions, the crews demonstrated service above and beyond the call of duty.  All members played a significant and challenging role in protecting property, communicating with the public and providing logistical and aviation support.

The Castlereagh Zone Rural Fire Brigades and Cassilis Brigade are worthy recipients of the Commissioner’s Certificate of Commendation (Unit).


Cudgegong Airbase Crew Aviation Support

Cudgegong District, Region West

The Cudgegong Airbase Crew Aviation Support formed in 2006 to support aviation firefighting operations in the Mid-Western Regional Council area.  The crew’s membership is predominantly drawn from the Lawson Brigade. Since forming, these airbase operators have not only supported operations locally but have also been deployed to other areas around the state to assist with air base operations.

The Cudgegong Airbase crew aviation support has played an integral role in controlling a number of Section 44 fires, namely: Rathdowney and Bylong Complex in 2006; Wollemi Complex in 2009; and Spring Gully and River Lea in 2013.

The 2016/2017 fire season was one of the busiest the Cudgegong District had seen. In January 2017, the District experienced several dry lightning storm events that caused multiple fires, which required aviation support. One large and severe storm moved through Mudgee’s city centre and out to Mudgee Airport where the airbase was supporting a neighbouring fire in the Chifley Zone.  The storm moved through with wind gusts of over 100 kilometres per hour, scattering airbase equipment across the operating area of the airport.  The Airbase Operators sheltered in a nearby hanger until the storm passed, then proceeded to re-establish the airbase equipment to fill the bombers that landed soon after. They assisted with a plane that had been overturned by the strong winds and was leaking fuel.  

The Cudgegong Airbase crew had been involved in 15 days of operations in the lead up to the catastrophic conditions on Sunday 12 February 2017.  During this particular weekend, the airbase was activated to load bombers on the Saturday afternoon when the Sir Ivan fire started and again on the Sunday morning before the White Cedars Road fire started in the Cudgegong District.  With limited shelter from the elements, crew members exercised their duties in temperatures in excess of 43.9 degrees Celsius and in wind speeds peaking above 80kph.  Due to the extreme conditions and workload as a result of the high number of aircraft, volunteers were rotated through short rest periods at the Airport.

This aviation support crew consistently perform their duties in support of firefighting operations and are worthy of recognition.

The Cudgegong Airbase Crew Aviation Support are worthy recipients of the Commissioner’s Certificate of Commendation (Unit).

Down the Wire Technicians

In March 2017, ex-tropical cyclone Debbie hit the far north coastal area of NSW causing significant flooding and damage to property. As part of the NSW State Emergency Service response to the event, the NSW Rural Fire Service deployed five winch-capable helicopters to assist in flood rescue operations. NSW RFS Down the Wire Technicians – Allen Madden, Robert Homfray, Callum Whitford, David Bellantonio Grahame Horne, James (Jim) Hunter, Matthew Broadribb, Matthew Clark, Richard (Rick) Ott and Stephanie Looi – provided this capability for seven continuous days to the affected areas.  This provision of response capability was unprecedented.

During the response, the Down the Wire Technicians undertook 28 helicopter rescues of persons trapped or isolated by floodwaters, often during poor weather conditions. Of these, there were seventeen helicopter rescues where the helicopter landed, requiring the technician to attend to people who were isolated or trapped by floodwater, and escorting them through floodwater to safety.

Eleven of the rescues involved the technician being winched down onto rooftops or into floodwater to winch people to safety. Of those winched to safety two were families including four small children, the youngest only three years old.

Helicopter winch rescues are very high-risk operations that require exceptionally high levels of skill and training. The NSW RFS Down the Wire Technicians are dedicated to this role far beyond what could reasonably be expected.  The technicians demonstrated an exceptional and continuous level of service in an extreme weather event by performing challenging and difficult operations.

The Down the Wire Technicians are worthy recipients of the Commissioner’s Certificate of Commendation (Unit).

Lake George Zone Rural Fire Brigades and Group Officers

Bombay, Boro, Braidwood, Bungendore, Burra, Captains Flat, Hoskingtown, Jerrabomberra Creek, Lake George Operations Support Group, Majors Creek, Mongarlowe, Queanbeyan City, Ridgeway, Stoney Creek, Wamboin, Group North and Group West
Lake George Zone, Region South

On 17 February 2017, a fire started in grasslands off Taliesin Road, east of Queanbeyan. A wet spring and dry summer had created high fuel loads of near-cured grassland in the area and the fire spread rapidly.

Under the direction of Group West 1, David Loft, the first arriving units Queanbeyan City and Ridgeway Brigades, commenced a direct attack on the flanks of the fire.  Although the fire started in open farmland, a large rural/residential area lay in its path.  Dense scrub and timber surrounded many of the properties with deep gullies breaking up the area.  

Unfortunately, due to strong winds and an uphill slope, the first arriving units could not contain the fire and additional brigades were paged by the Operations Support Group to respond to the fireground.  Fewer than 20 appliances had reached the fireground.  Over 100 properties required protection from a fire that was spotting and crowning.

Firefighters went from house to house checking for residents, assessing the defendability of the properties and helping members of the public prepare to evacuate or stay to fight the fire.  Trucks drove onto properties as flames erupted over buildings in front of them and tankers were overrun.  Two firefighters were injured as they defended a Fire and Rescue NSW pumper caught by an approaching crown fire. 

The fire destroyed 11 houses, including the local brigade captain’s home, which he left to warn his neighbours of the approaching fire.

It is a testament to the professionalism, skill and courage of the first responding crews that many homes were saved and no lives were lost.

The Lake George Brigades and Group Officers, namely Bombay, Boro, Braidwood, Bungendore, Burra, Captains Flat, Hoskingtown, Jerrabomberra Creek, Lake George Operations Support Group, Majors Creek, Mongarlowe, Queanbeyan City, Ridgeway, Stoney Creek, Wamboin, Group North and Group West are worthy recipients of the Commissioner’s Certificate of Commendation (Unit).

Mudgee 1A  

Cudgegong District, Region West

On 7 February 2017, crews from the Cudgegong District responded to the Cooks Gap area with reports of multiple fires, the result of a dry lightning cell that had moved through the area.

Mudgee 1A responded to assist in the Cooks Gap area with reports of several fires and property under threat. Once on scene the crew of Mudgee 1A, Deputy Captain Brendan Liney, Deputy Captain Kieron Pritchard, Firefighter Andrew Selman and Firefighter Aidan Mangano began to work on the Moolarben Road fire with other NSW Rural Fire Service crews and local landholders. A utility driven by a member of the public came from an adjoining property asking for help as his brother had been hit by lightning. The crew of Mudgee 1A stowed their equipment and responded to the scene guided into the property by the victim’s brother.

On arriving at the scene, the crew of Mudgee 1A located the patient adjacent to the fire edge and made the area safe. A member of the public on the property had already commenced CPR. The Officer in Charge (OIC) applied the AED pads to the patient and proceeded to shock the patient. Between the driver, the OIC and the member of the public they rotated CPR and kept using the AED. After many shocks with the AED, the OIC identified that it may have reached its capacity and subsequently sourced a second AED from another arriving truck. The second AED pads were applied to the patient and the patient was further shocked a number of times.

For approximately one hour, CPR was applied before the arrival of NSW Ambulance Officers. Upon arrival on scene, the NSW Ambulance Officers worked on the patient with their own AED for approximately 15 minutes before pronouncing the patient deceased.
During this time, the other crew members were fighting the fire to prevent it from spreading towards where they were working on the patient and one crew member was relaying urgent situation reports to the Fire Control Centre.

The next morning, the responding NSW Ambulance Paramedic contacted the District Manager to advise that the Mudgee 1A crew provided the casualty with the best possible chance of survival and that they could not have done anything better in their endeavour to preserve his life.

The Mudgee 1A Crew are worthy recipients of the Commissioner’s Certificate of Commendation (Unit).

Northern Rivers Zone Group Officers and Brigades

Northern Rivers Zone, Region North

On 30 March 2017, Tropical Cyclone Debbie moved south from Queensland into northern New South Wales and merged with a cold front moving up the north coast, triggering heavy rainfall across the Northern Rivers, affecting Lismore, Kyogle, Murwillumbah and a number of localities along the Richmond, Wilson and Tweed Rivers.

Significant rainfall, in excess of 1200mm, was recorded within the upper reaches of these catchments, which created significant flooding in the towns and villages identified downstream.

By early evening on 30 March 2017 the first requests for assistance from the State Emergency Service were for Brigades to assist with door knocking and evacuating those people in the lower areas of North and South Lismore. This took several hours with some brigades working in flood water that was rising in the streets around them, isolating many residents in their homes. By the early hours of 31 March 2017, the flood waters had risen, breaching the Lismore levee and entering the central business district, inundating most businesses and residences.

River water across the Northern Rivers region began to further inundate the low lying areas of Kyogle central business district and many rural properties. As daylight broke, the enormity of the challenges began to unfold. The NSW Rural Fire Service prepared a resource plan for a significant response to the incident and ultimate recovery for the community.  

On 1 April 2017 the flood waters had peaked and began receding around Lismore, which enabled local brigades to enter South Lismore and Wyrallah to assist business owners and residents to move furniture and equipment, and to commence cleanup operations.
With the arrival of the first out of area brigades on 3 April 2017, local efforts were significantly fortified over the next 10 days with an average of 75 appliances and support vehicles plus 450 fire fighters per day contributing to the cleanup effort in Lismore.

The members of the Northern Rivers Zone, when called to help their community did themselves, their brigades and the broader NSW Rural Fire Service community proud through their selfless acts and their can-do attitude during this major flood event.

The Northern Rivers Zone Group Officers and Brigades are worthy recipients of the Commissioner’s Certificate of Commendation (Unit).

Pacific Palms Rural Fire Brigade

Mid Coast Zone, Region East

On Tuesday 7 February 2017 at 1442 hours, Pacific Palms Rural Fire Brigade responded to an incident where a person was trapped under an excavator at Charlotte Bay on the North Coast of NSW.

The crew comprised Captain Bradley (Brad) Field, Deputy Captain Charles Degotardi, Firefighters Karma Reeves, Dennis Buxton and David Cameron.

On arrival, the crew found the victim trapped under a small excavator, which had overturned into a shallow dam. The victim was pinned in such a way that he was able to uncomfortably position only his mouth and nose above the water. He had been trapped for several hours and was struggling to maintain this position.

Being first on scene and unable to extract the victim, the crew set about supporting the victim and setting up pumps to try to reduce the dam water level to provide relief to the victim and support the rescue effort.

The crew continued their rescue efforts for some 15 minutes until units from Fire Rescue New South Wales (FRNSW), Forster Fire Station, arrived.  NSW RFS and FRNSW crews worked together to rescue the victim.

Given the muddy base of the dam and awkward position of the victim, the rescue took some 40 minutes and involved significant lateral thinking and application of training principles. The victim, who was known to some of the crew, made a full recovery.

There is little doubt that the actions of the Pacific Palms Brigade crew significantly contributed to the successful rescue of the victim.

The Pacific Palms Rural Fire Brigade are worthy recipients of the Commissioner’s Certificate of Commendation (Unit).

Picton Rural Fire Brigade

Southern Highlands Team, Region East

On 5 June 2016 at approximately 1400hours, Picton Rural Fire Brigade responded to the Picton township to provide flood assistance. The crew comprised Firefighters Andrew Hain, Bradley Helson, Jamie Smith and Rachel Wyper and were tasked with monitoring rising flood levels, pumping water, and assisting with sand bagging stores in the main street of Picton.

At approximately 1715hours, at the request of local police, the crew were tasked to proceed to the Picton Hotel to rescue members of the public who were cut off and at risk by the rising flood waters in Argyle Street, Picton.

Through their actions they rescued a man and woman from the Picton Hotel, a family consisting of three women and a two year old child from a local shop near the hotel, and a man trapped in a tree behind apartments also in the vicinity.

The actions of the crew that afternoon were exemplary and carried out in the true spirit of assisting their community. Their efforts in securing and ensuring the safety of community members in the absence of flood specialist teams is commendable.

The Picton Rural Fire Brigade are worthy recipients of the Commissioner’s Certificate of Commendation (Unit).

Procurement Accreditation Team

NSW RFS Headquarters

In 2012, the Attorney General and Justice Cluster commenced the process of accreditation for procurement for each of its agencies in line with the NSW Procurement Board Directives. In 2013, the NSW Rural Fire Service Procurement Section, working with the Senior Project Officer Infrastructure Services, formed the Procurement Accreditation Project Team, utilising some assistance from external consultants.

The Procurement Accreditation Project Team worked tirelessly over a period exceeding 12 months developing and compiling documentation that would see the NSW Rural Fire Service (NSW RFS) reach a level 2b accreditation, thus enabling the NSW RFS tendering of contracts to $20M.

While procurement accreditation was the primary objective, the broader work completed by the Procurement Accreditation Project Team has delivered the NSW RFS a “best practices” management approach to procurement.  

The Procurement Accreditation is subject to a three-yearly review and in 2017 the review teams undertook this work by closely examining systems and procedures put in place for the initial accreditation. The external assessment team advised that not only was the accreditation process satisfactory, but the continuous improvement within the NSW RFS processes and practices was well above agency benchmarks. Detailed and rigorous assessment over a period of two months again saw the team working above and beyond to deliver an agency leading result.

Not only was the NSW RFS re-accredited during this process, but the Service’s ability to manage and maintain vital contracts and procurement management processes internally was improved to a level that heightened the Service’s accreditation level. Given the small number of team members and the volume of work undertaken, both in business as usual and re-accreditation efforts, the outcomes reflect an outstanding team committed to the continuous improvement of procurement in the NSW RFS.

The Procurement Team, comprising Rodney Lambert, Wendy Buckett, Matthew Lane, Mariell Taylor, Dilini Kumarasinghe, Nora Gayford, Michaelle Duffy and Veronica Malone, worked beyond expected levels by completing this work in addition to their normal roles, working nights and weekends to ensure the successful outcome of both the initial and subsequent accreditation processes.

The Procurement Accreditation Team are worthy recipients of the Commissioner’s Certificate of Commendation (Unit).

RFSA Workers Compensation Working Group.

Rural Fire Service Association and NSW Rural Fire Service  

The Rural Fire Service Association Workers Compensation Working Group (RFSAWCWG) was established in April 2007 as a commitment by the Rural Fire Service Association (RFSA) and the NSW Rural Fire Service (NSW RFS) to investigate possible shortfalls in workers compensation for volunteer firefighters, particularly those who are self-employed. The aim of the Group was to improve the workers compensation claims management process and facilitate improvements in the workers compensation system.

In order to achieve this, a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) was established.  This MOU gave rise to a stated commitment by the RFSA and the NSW RFS to ensure the ongoing support and assistance to our volunteers, particularly where injury or personal loss occurred as a result of their volunteer activities.  This MOU became the symbol of commitment that both agencies share for the welfare of the NSW RFS volunteers.

The RFSAWCWG has significantly improved systems and processing of Workers Compensation claims management in its time.  It has also provided the vital point of contact for key personnel in our two agencies to deal with any issues in a timely and professional manner and more generally to exchange information and ideas.

The RFSAWCWG comprises: RFSA Policy and Governance Advisor Trevor Anderson PSM AFSM; RFSA President Ken Middleton; Group Officer James (Jim) Smith AFSM; Volunteer Christopher Powell AFSM; Executive Director Bronwyn Jones PSM; Director Daniel Moroney; Superintendent John Hojel AFSM; Superintendent Nicholas (Nick) Turner; Inspector Langdon Gould; Manager David Heslop; Officer Emma Hagan and Officer Chelsea Varga. 

The Rural Fire Service Association Workers Compensation Working Group are worthy recipients of the Commissioner’s Certificate of Commendation (Unit).

Stoney Creek Brigade

Lake George Zone, Region South

On 17 February 2017, a fast moving grass fire seriously affected residential areas within Carwoola near Queanbeyan.  While the members of the Stoney Creek Brigade responded to protect the community they risked their own safety with unfortunately one member being burnt during an overrun.

The Brigade’s efforts mopping up and extinguishing the fire continued for the next two weeks.  In total, the fire burnt 3,100 hectares, destroyed 11 homes and numerous other buildings, damaged many other homes and buildings and led to the hospitalisation of two firefighters.

In the weeks that followed, under the leadership of Captain David Hanzl, Stoney Creek Brigade members assisted the Carwoola community to deal with the trauma and the daily reminders of this fire.

The Brigade conducted community engagement meetings for residents to discuss fire safety, to debrief about their experiences and understand what happened during the fire. They also conducted large numbers of property assessments for residents and continued to run the Hotspots program.

The Brigade has built strong communications between the NSW Rural Fire Service and the Carwoola community with regular columns in the local newsletter, information about planned fires and training events so that residents’ fears from “smoke in the air” are reduced.

Following the fire, the Brigade has welcomed an influx of new RFS members and coordinated a Bush Firefighter course for them and other new starters from across the district. The Brigade has also provided practical help to the recovering community by coordinating RFS problem tree fellers to assist fire-affected residents remove problem trees from their properties.

The members of the Stoney Creek Brigade have been instrumental in helping the residents recover from the fire, develop resilience into the future, and build a strong sense of community.

The Stoney Creek Brigade are worthy recipients of the Commissioner’s Certificate of Commendation (Unit).