Gongolgon Rural Fire Brigade opens new station and recognises members

NSW Rural Fire Service (NSW RFS) Commissioner has officially opened the new $200,000 Gongolgon Brigade Station, and honoured local members for their ongoing dedication and commitment.

Commissioner Shane Fitzsimmons along with Assistant Commissioner Peter McKechnie, inspected the new facility and thanked volunteers for their ongoing support.

Commissioner Fitzsimmons said the new station would provide enhanced support to the RFS members, as well as the communities they protect.

“This new facility will assist members of the Gongolgon Brigade with vehicle movements, station maintenance, training and the fighting of fires,” Commissioner Fitzsimmons said.

“We continually see how hard our skilled firefighters work to keep us safe during fires, and other emergency situations. I offer my sincere thanks and gratitude to all NSW RFS members for their outstanding efforts.

“This station gives our volunteers the space to perform essential activities away from the fireground, and features a number of enhancements, such as being run completely by solar power.

Commissioner Fitzsimmons also recognised the dedication and commitment of long serving members, by presenting three National Medals and 14 Long Service Medals, to 17 NSW RFS members.

“These individuals do not volunteer their time for recognition, however these medals are a sincere acknowledgement of the commitment demonstrated across the years,” Commissioner Fitzsimmons said.

“I note more than 555 years of combined service, and I know that the community is thankful for the world-class level of fire protection afforded to them by crews across the Far West Team.

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

Commissioner Fitzsimmons presented Rick Reid with the National Medal 1^st, 2^nd, 3^rd and 4^th clasp as well as the Long Service Medal 4^th clasp.

“Rick has been a dedicated member of the NSW RFS for 55 years after joining Coolabah Brigade in 1964, and for all but 18 of those years he has held the position of Deputy Captain,” Commissioner Fitzsimmons said.