Emergency service cadets honoured

Mr Ayres said the award program, which commenced in 2009, is an opportunity to acknowledge the invaluable role that young people play within the NSW emergency services.

"The NSW RFS and NSW SES cadet programs promote leadership, community service and the values of volunteering in young people across NSW," he said.

"I am pleased to announce the 2013 Cadet of the Year recipients are NSW RFS cadet Richard Alley and NSW SES cadet Benjamin Albers."

"Both Richard and Benjamin are outstanding examples of enthusiastic cadets who have devoted their time to helping protect their communities."

The principal of Yass High School, Sandra Hiscock, noted that Richard was an exceptional cadet who worked to actively encourage other students and mentor new participants. He is now a member of the Murrumbateman NSW RFS.

Benjamin, from Cherrybrook Technology High School, completed the cadet program with a high level of leadership and dedication. He is now a member of The Hills NSW SES Unit.

"I would like to congratulate Richard and Benjamin on their achievements and thank them for their commitment to our great volunteer emergency services," said Mr Ayres.

"Through the school cadet programs, students safely learn how to deal with emergencies, be it fires, floods or other natural disasters.

"The NSW RFS cadet program commenced in 2005, with more than 5000 students participating in 329 programs since its inception.

"The NSW SES has now conducted 107 programs with 2088 students participating since its launch in 2008."

Mr Ayres also thanked the teachers, cadet coordinators and volunteers who dedicate significant amounts of time to training young people in programs across the State.

"It is fitting that we celebrate the achievements of these cadets, along with those who lead them, during National Volunteers Week," he said.