Clarence Valley District celebrates dedicated members

Experienced firefighters from across the RFS Clarence Valley District will be celebrated for more than 2,200 years of service as the area receives $550,000 worth of tankers to bolster its firefighting capabilities.

At a ceremony in Grafton today, Deputy Commissioner Peter McKechnie will join Clarence Valley District members and special guests to present 9 Humanitarian Overseas Service Medals.

The medals, which are awarded to people who have given humanitarian service in hazardous circumstances outside Australia, are in recognition of the RFS deployment to Canada in 2017.

Also being honoured for a combined 2,204 years of service, 119 RFS firefighters will be presented with National Medals and Long Service Medals during the ceremony.

Deputy Commissioner McKechnie said these medals are a proud acknowledgement of the commitment shown by these individuals over the years.

“Every single one of these members should be proud of themselves and their dedication to protecting communities both across the state and abroad,” Deputy Commissioner McKechnie said.

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

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

Deputy Commissioner McKechnie said it was a boost to the Clarence Valley District’s firefighting arsenal to also receive the keys to two fire trucks for the Gulmarrad and Ewingar Rural Fire Brigades.

“These firefighting appliances are worth a combined $550,000 but to our members, they are a priceless resource so they can continue to protect the community,” he said.