$800,000 upgrade and award for Mid North Coast RFS volunteers

NSW RFS Region North Manager Chief Superintendent Brett Condie also presented five members with Long Service medals in recognition of their lengthy and diligent service.

"The volunteer firefighters across the Mid North Coast make an invaluable contribution to local communities and are the backbone of the NSW RFS.

"The five members being recognised here today have between them recorded more than 100 years service which is an inspirational achievement.

"I would particularly like to pay tribute Ian Hamey from the Korora RFS brigade who is today being recognised for more than 50 years service.

"This level of commitment is a clear indication that the tradition of volunteering, and assisting the community in times of need is thriving in this region."

The Long Service Medals were presented by Chief Superintendent Condie at the official opening of Kalang Rural Fire Brigade's new station, where he also handed over the keys to four new bush fire tankers .

"The NSW Rural Fire Service is committed to ensuring that our volunteers have the necessary equipment to carry out their important work across NSW.

"This new station will provide members with an upgraded facility and improved amenities to help them continue their valuable contribution to the community. The project was assisted with significant fundraising, which is a demonstration of the brigade's standing within the community".

Chief Superintendent Condie said that the new tankers worth $740,000 were a necessary addition for the Fernmount, Brierfield, Kalang and Gleniffer brigades.

"They are replacing older style models and will help the volunteers continue protecting their communities in times of emergency."