RFS Far South Coast District applauds dedicated members

Across two ceremonies, 37 National Emergency Medals, 11 National Medals and 100 Long Service Medals will be presented to volunteers.

Acting RFS South Eastern Area Commander Paul Jones will join guests at the Bega Civic Centre on Saturday and again at the Catalina Country Club in Batesman Bay on Sunday to mark the occasion.

Superintendent Jones said the National Emergency Medal is awarded to persons who rendered sustained or significant service during nationally-significant emergencies in Australia.

“Members of the Far South Coast District played an integral part in the firefighting response during the 2019-20 season and rose to the challenge to protect communities,” he said.

Superintendent Jones said Long Service Medal and National Medal recipients had together given a total of more than 2,800 years of service to the community.

“The members being recognised today with long service and national medals and or clasps range from 10 to 66 years of service, with a special mention of Brian Ayliffe from Cobargo Brigade who is receiving the Long Service Medal for 66 years’ service.

“Today we also congratulate Robert Thatcher from the Jellat Brigade with a Long Service Medal for his 64 years of service.

“I would like to take this time to praise all our volunteers for their ongoing efforts each and every day, particularly when dealing with emergencies here in the Far South Coast.

“We also thank the family, friends, employers and colleagues of all RFS volunteers. We know it takes their ongoing support and patience to assist and enable our volunteers to do what they do to save lives and property.”