East Parkes Brigade honours veteran volunteers and celebrates new fire trucks

At a ceremony held at the Cookamidgera Hall, NSW RFS Assistant Commissioner Jason Heffernan presented 65 Long Service Medals to volunteers from the East Parkes Brigade in recognition of their service and dedication to the community.

Assistant Commissioner Heffernan said that in total, these awards represented 1,914 years of combined service in the Mid Lachlan Valley Team area.

“These medals are a proud acknowledgement of the volunteers’ dedication to protecting their community and the commitment they have given to their brigade,” Assistant Commissioner Heffernan said.

Assistant Commissioner Heffernan also made particular mention of Eston White, who has received the Long Service Medal in recognition of his 73 years of service.

“Eston joined the Rural Fire Service in 1945 and has been involved in many varied incidents through the decades holding the position of Brigade Secretary and Treasurer between 1972 and 2012.

“His dedication is appreciated and his experience highly valued.

“I would also like to acknowledge James Nash, being recognised for his 61 years’ active service after joining in 1957.”

Assistant Commissioner Heffernan said the hard work and professionalism of all East Parkes Brigade members does not go unnoticed and this is a great opportunity for the broader community to express their gratitude and say thank you.

“We must also thank the family, friends and colleagues of all our volunteers,” Assistant Commissioner Heffernan said.

“We know it takes their support and patience to help Rural Fire Service members do what they do.”

During the ceremony, a new Category 1 tanker and new Category 7 tanker were also officially handed over to the East Parkes Brigade, with a combined value of $500,000.

"These new vehicles, replacing an older style models, will enable the brigade to continue their outstanding work and I would personally like to congratulate everybody on their ongoing hard work and professionalism,” Assistant Commissioner Yorke said.