Long Service Medals for Mid Lachlan Valley volunteer firefighters

At a ceremony held at the Weddin Fire Control Centre today, Mr Smith presented volunteers from the Weddin Headquarters Rural Fire Brigade with the medals.

Mr Smith said the volunteers had selflessly dedicated years to their local community and were always on hand to assist with fires and other emergencies right across the district.

"Between them, these seven volunteers have more than 190 years of experience in the NSW Rural Fire Service. This is a remarkable achievement and I would particularly like to pay tribute to Lawrence Howell, Stephen Mitton and Robert Bernard who have each dedicated more than 30 years to the Service. 

"All of the members being recognised here today have played an integral role in the Weddin community, whether fighting bush fires or assisting during storms, floods or road accidents.

"It's wonderful to see today's medal recipients receiving recognition for their years as volunteers with NSW RFS. It's an indication that the NSW RFS tradition in this region is thriving".

Mr Smith said that volunteers are the backbone of the NSW RFS and deserved sincere gratitude from the community for their selfless work.

"While our members don't volunteer for awards or accolades, this is a way for the Mid Lachlan Valley and wider NSW community to express our sincere thanks for their ongoing contribution," Mr Smith said.