Jumble Springs Brigade celebrates veteran volunteers

Summary

NSW Rural Fire Service (NSW RFS) NSW RFS Assistant Commissioner Peter McKecknie will tonight honour 18 volunteer firefighters at a ceremony to be held at the Rabbit Trap Hotel in Albert.

Assistant Commissioner McKecknie will present 18 NSW RFS Long Service Medals to volunteers in acknowledgment of their long standing dedication to the Service and to protecting their local community from fire.

“In total, these recipients have between them devoted an incredible 671 years of service to the local community and, of those, six recipients are being honoured for 50 or more years of service, which is an incredible commitment,” Assistant Commissioner McKecknie said.

“It is an absolute honor to present these awards and to take a moment in which we can reflect upon the outstanding achievements of these members.”

Assistant Commissioner McKecknie made particular mention of Ken Baker, who will be recognised for his 69 years’ service, receiving the Long Service Medal and 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th and 5th Clasps.

“Ken joined the Jumble Springs Brigade in 1950 and then the Top Woodlands Brigade in 1980, being an active member of both since.

“I thank Ken for his seven decades of service and I know he is highly regarded for his wealth of experience and continuing dedication.

“Well done also to Ken Ryan, the current Brigade Vice President, on his 58 years dedicated service. Assistant Commissioner McKecknie said those with 50 or more years’ service also being congratulated this evening include Peter Williams, (58), Timothy Colville (56 years), Fred Bowen (54 years) and John Greig (50 years).

“Each and every one of the volunteers being recognised tonight is worthy of our sincerest thanks and I would like to personally commend them, not only for their commitment to the Service, but also to their community,” Assistant Commissioner McKecknie said.

“We also thank the family, friends 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.

“We see this community commitment in many ways. With the recent significant fire activity in Northern NSW we have seen many members from across Western NSW travel to assist and I would take this opportunity to thank them as well.”

Attached files:

Contact Name: State Duty Media Officer

Contact Phone: (02) 9898 1855