Clarence Valley District volunteers to be recognised for long service

NSW RFS Senior Assistant Commissioner Bruce McDonald will join local volunteers to present five National Medals and 42 Long Service Medals at a special ceremony to be held at the Clarence Valley Fire Control Centre.

“These members do not volunteer their time for the accolades, however these medals are a proud acknowledgement of the commitment shown by these individuals over the years,” Senior Assistant Commissioner McDonald said.

“More than 1,096 years of service will be recognised by tomorrow’s recipients and I know that the community is thankful for the world-class level of fire protection afforded to them by volunteers across the Clarence Valley District.

“I personally extend my gratitude to all of our dedicated firefighters for their continued service to and for the community.”

Senior Assistant Commissioner McDonald is honoured to present Neville Anderson with the NSW RFS Long Service Medal 4^th Clasp.

“Nev has been a dedicated volunteer member of the NSW RFS for 50 years after first joining Corindi / Red Rock Brigade in 1968 and then becoming an integral member of the Sherwood Creek Brigade where his experience has been valued by his peers,” Senior Assistant Commissioner McDonald said.

“Over his five decades with the Service, he has fought fires locally and assisted communities further afield, including an interstate deployment to Victoria in 2009 and overseas to Canada in 2017.

Senior Assistant Commissioner McDonald also acknowledged the contribution of John Page and Desmond Firth, who will each receive the 1^st, 2^nd and 3^rd Clasps of their National Medal in recognition of 45 years of service.

“John joined the Coaldale Brigade in 1973 and after being Captain for nine years from 2001, was appointed Group Captain in 2001 and holds that position today,” Senior Assistant Commissioner McDonald said.

“Des became a member of the Coutts Crossing Brigade in 1974 and has been a well-respected member since, sharing his local knowledge and experience with colleagues in his current role of Brigade President.”

Senior Assistant Commissioner McDonald said that each volunteer being recognised tomorrow has demonstrated an exceptional level of commitment to their community.

“I offer my sincere thanks and gratitude to all the NSW RFS staff and volunteers who continue to work hard for their communities,” Senior Assistant Commissioner McDonald said.

“We must also thank the family, friends, employers and colleagues of these and all volunteers. We know it takes their support and patience to help Rural Fire Service members do what they do.”