Canobolas Zone applauds dedicated members

Ninety-nine National Emergency Medals, 11 Long Service Medals, 24 Interstate/International Deployment Pins and seven Life Membership plaques will be presented to volunteers.

NSW RFS Chief Superintendent Jayson McKellar AFSM will join guests to mark the occasion, with two ceremonies to recognise the recipients, at the Canobolas Fire Control Centre in Orange today and at the NSW RFS Airbase Facility in Cowra tomorrow.

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

“Members of the Canobolas Zone played an integral part in the firefighting response during the 2019/20 fire season and rose to the challenge to protect communities,” he said.

“I also congratulate those members who travelled further afield to protect communities interstate during that season as well, in areas such as Victoria, Tasmania and Queensland.

“The members being recognised today with long service medals and or clasps range from 14 to 55 years of service, with a special mention of Kim Masters who is receiving their Long Service Medal 4th Clasp for 55 years for his service to the Burnt Yards – Cadia, Panuara and Tallwood Brigades. Kim has also been a valued Group Officer and Deputy Group Officer of the Blayney LGA from 1989 to 2021.

Chief Superintendent McKellar also noted Life Memberships will be presented to individuals within the Canobolas, Milthorpe and Woodstock Brigades.

“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 Central West area,” Chief Superintendent McKellar said.

“We also thank the family, friends, employers and colleagues of all NSW 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.”