Canobolas volunteer firefighters recognised

At the ceremony held in their honour, Mr Smith presented 28 volunteers with Long Service Medals and paid tribute to their professionalism.

"The diverse array of ladies and gentlemen receiving medals today all have one thing in common, they are highly trained, professional firefighters who freely give of their time to hone their skills, respond to emergencies and educate the public about fire.

"There is so much more to being a volunteer with the Service than manning a hose," said Mr Smith. "Brigade members have specialist skills that are frequently put to the test in emergency situations ranging from car accidents to bush, grass and house fires.

"Despite recent bush fire seasons being unseasonably quiet, people in the Canobolas area know how daunting the threat of bush fires can be – and our volunteers work tirelessly to help the community remain well prepared.

"Many of the members being recognised today have been serving with their brigades for more than 40 years, which is an outstanding accomplishment".

During the official proceedings, Mr Smith made particular mention of the two members celebrating more than 60 years service.

"Like everyone here tonight, Bruce Baker and Geoff Pascoe have made an invaluable contribution to both their community and brigade. The local knowledge and experience that these members bring to their brigade is greatly valued and frequently mined by their fellow volunteers.

"Both of these gentlemen decided in their teens that they wanted to help protect their neighbours' properties from fire and have continued to commit their time and energy to all facets of brigade life ever since.

"I'd like to extend my gratitude to this exceptional group of ladies and gentlemen who are driven by the desire to protect their community during times of emergency. It's an admirable trait and they should be regarded as pillars of the Canobolas area," said Mr Smith.