Carrathool volunteers commended on long service

Nine volunteers from the Merriwagga Brigade gathered at their brigade station today to be honoured with long service medals to mark their on-going commitment to firefighting in their area.

"Every one of these volunteers has gone over and above the call of duty during their many collective years with the Merriwagga Brigade.

"Due to this brigade's rural location, many of its volunteers are members of the local farming community who have the added responsibility of protecting not only their neighbours' homes, but their land, equipment and stock as well.

"These ladies and gentlemen have shown exceptional commitment to their local community by amassing an impressive 439 years of service between them.This is an outstanding effort for just nine individuals.

"I'd like to make particular mention of Lex McKenzie who has been an active member of his brigade since 1950 and served as Captain for more than 30 years, more recently moving into the role of President.

"Geoff Barber is another member being honoured here today who has been actively fighting bush, grass, house and car fires with his fellow brigade members for more than 60 years.

"This brigade has carried out some important hazard reduction work throughout the last decade including an asset protection zone around the village of Merriwagga.

"Each and every one of the volunteers here today is worthy of our most sincere thanks and I would like to personally praise them, not only for their commitment to the Service, but also their community," concluded Mr Curry.