Lake George members recognised for outstanding service

The commitment of 28 NSW Rural Fire Service (RFS) volunteers who have collectively dedicated more than 450 years of service to the Lake George Zone will be recognised at a ceremony today.

Deputy Commissioner Kyle Stewart APM will be joined by special guests in Bungendore to present three National Medals and 24 Long Service Medals as well as a National Emergency Medal.

“Among today’s deserving award recipients are Irene and David Murtagh, whose combined commitment of over three decades exemplifies the selflessness and strength of the NSW RFS spirit.”

“Joining the RFS in 1991, Irene and David have been fighting fires side-by-side exclusively with the Charleyong Brigade and filling a number of operational, executive and administrative roles.

“Across her years of service, Irene has held various roles including secretary, treasurer and callout officer, with David undertaking various roles including Deputy Captain, Senior Deputy Captain, President and Training Officer, just to name a few,” said Deputy Commissioner Stewart.

Deputy Commissioner Stewart said it’s members like Irene and David that go above and beyond for their brigades and local community, that make me proud to be part of this organisation.

“This is a fitting time to recognise the dedication they all show and share in protecting our local community,” he said.

“Their professionalism does not go unnoticed and while they don’t do the work for praise, their bravery and commitment should be acknowledged.

“I also acknowledge those who support volunteers in what they do - the family, friends, employers and colleagues. We know it takes their ongoing support and patience to assist and enable our volunteers to do what they do to save lives and protect property.”

Deputy Commissioner Stewart also presented three Commissioner’s Unit awards for citations and commendations.

“Malloon Brigade is being awarded the Commissioner’s Commendation Award (Unit) for their efforts supporting NSW Police and Ambulance with the access and recovery of a deceased female from a camping ground in December 2023,” said Deputy Commissioner Stewart.

“A Strike team, made up with members from Lake George is being awarded the Commissioner’s Commendation Award (Unit) for their efforts in protecting multiple structures from a large bush fire under extreme conditions in Victoria, during February 2024.

“Firefighter David Loft is being recognised for a Commissioner’s Unit Citation for Service in his part of the 2019/20 bush fires Joint Agency Fire Investigation Taskforce,” Deputy Commissioner Stewart said.