Celebration for Legume Brigade members

Summary

NSW Rural Fire Service (NSW RFS) members have gathered in Legume today to celebrate the 52nd anniversary of the Legume Rural Fire Brigade within the Northern Tablelands District and present members with medals in recognition of their dedication and service.

NSW RFS Deputy Commissioner Peter McKechnie congratulated members past and present for building the brigade into the community focal point it is today.

“This brigade has a proud history of community and spirit,” Deputy Commissioner McKechnie said.

“Formed in 1969, the brigade now boasts 62 members and is very active within the community.”

Deputy Commissioner McKechnie said this celebration was an opportunity to not only congratulate the brigade on this milestone but also thank members for their ongoing commitment and service, with the presentation of 13 National Emergency Medals, 43 Long Service Medals and 6 Life Memberships.

“The National Emergency Medal is awarded to persons who rendered sustained or significant service during nationally-significant emergencies in Australia, including those members who gave so much during the 2019-2020 Bush Fires,” he said.

“Members of the Northern Tablelands District played an integral part in the firefighting response during that season and rose to the challenge to protect communities.

The event provided an opportunity to recognise 43 members of the brigade who had together amassed 1110 years of service to the NSW RFS.

“Today, we have recognised dedicated volunteers who had given between 10 and 50 years’ of service to the community,” he said.

“I particularly wish to congratulate the eight members who have received medals for 50 years each, including Keith Young, who sadly passed away recently and received the award posthumously.

“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 Northern Tablelands.

“The hard work and professionalism of all NSW RFS members does not go unnoticed and while they do not ask for praise, we should take this opportunity to acknowledge their contribution and commitment to their community.

“We must also thank the family, friends, employers and colleagues of these and all volunteers. We know it takes their support to help our members do what they do to save lives and property.”

Attached files:

Contact Name: State Duty Media Officer

Contact Phone: (02) 9898 1855