East Parkes volunteers’ commitment praised

In an official presentation in Cookamidgera today Commissioner Fitzsimmons presented each of the volunteers with Long Service Medals and acknowledged their on-going dedication.

"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," said Commissioner Fitzsimmons.

Commissioner Fitzsimmons said that between them the 13 volunteers presented with medals had managed to amass a hefty 672 years of service between them.

"Every one of the volunteers being honoured today has been with the Service for more than four decades. During this time they have each built up a raft of experiences that I know are greatly valued by their fellow brigade members.

"These gentlemen have all witnessed a lot of changes over the years and they have many stories to tell, from fighting fires to brigade life.

"I would like to make particular mention of Eston White who has been a valued member of the Service for 67 years. During this time he has held many roles within his brigade including Secretary and Communications Officer.

"Joseph Hinds has been a member for 64 years and during that time he recalls fighting fires with flaps of leather attached to wooden handles, wet sacks or even a green tree branch before our fire fighting methods were refined," said Commissioner Fitzsimmons.

Commissioner Fitzsimmons said there are 99 brigades in the mid Lachlan area that respond to a range of bush, grass and house fires as well as motor vehicle accidents and other emergencies each year.

"All of the volunteers here today have demonstrated an exceptional level of commitment to their community over the years and these medals are just a small token of our appreciation," Commissioner Fitzsimmons concluded.