Ariah Park volunteers celebrate new tanker and long serving members

NSW RFS Deputy Commissioner, Bruce McDonald AFSM, joined Temora Shire Council staff and Bland Temora Zone members at Ariah Park Rural Fire Brigade Station today, to officially hand over the keys of the new tanker.

Deputy Commissioner McDonald said the new tanker, worth more than $333,000, would enable this brigade to strengthen its firefighting efforts across its community.

“While the previous tanker has served these firefighters very well, I am confident this new state-of-the-art vehicle will prove itself to be an invaluable asset to this proud brigade,” Deputy Commissioner McDonald said.

“The NSW Government’s ongoing investment in new vehicles ensures NSW RFS members have access to modern firefighting technology when responding to fires and other incidents.”

The event also provided an opportunity to recognise 16 members of the Ariah Park Brigade who had together amassed 563 years of service to the NSW RFS.

“Today we awarded long service medals and/or clasps to dedicated volunteers who had given between 17 and 63 years’ of service to the community,” Deputy Commissioner McDonald said.

“These men and women remain on-hand 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and we should be extremely proud and grateful for their contribution.

“In particular, considering the magnitude of last season, I would like to congratulate everybody on their ongoing hard work and professionalism.”