Faulconbridge volunteers celebrate new tanker and medal recipients

NSW RFS Commissioner Rob Rogers AFSM joined State and Federal members, Council staff and other guests at the Faulconbridge Rural Fire Station to officially hand over the keys of the new tanker.

Commissioner Rogers said the new Category 1 tanker worth more than $350,000, was a priceless resource for the Faulconbridge Brigade.

“While the previous tanker has served this brigade well, I am confident this new state-of-the-art vehicle will prove to be an invaluable asset to the area,” Commissioner Rogers said.

“The NSW RFS is committed to ensuring members have access to modern firefighting technology when responding to fires and other incidents.”

The event also provided an opportunity to recognise six long serving members who had gone above and beyond in their duties to be awarded the national medal.

“Today we awarded six national medals and/or clasps for exceptional long service, with these volunteers collectively giving 192 years of service to the community,” he said.

“I congratulate Terry Cameron (25 years’ service), Timothy Parsley (27 years’ service) and Sarah Elliott (27 years’ service) from Wentworth Falls Brigade, Ian Mann (34 years’ service) and Rosemary Mann (34 years’ service) from Blue Mountains Support Brigade and Raymond Willetts (45 years’ service) from Faulconbridge Brigade for their selfless dedication to their roles.

“These men and women remain on-hand 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and we should be extremely proud and grateful for their contribution.

“In particular, considering the magnitude of the 2019/20 bush fires and the recent floods, I would like to congratulate everybody on their ongoing hard work and professionalism. We also thank the family, friends, employers and colleagues of all NSW RFS volunteers. 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.”