Long serving Lockhart area volunteers honoured

Member for Wagga Wagga Joe McGirr, representing the Minister for Police and Emergency Services David Elliott, and NSW RFS Assistant Commissioner Peter McKechnie will present 70 Long Service Medals to volunteers in recognition of their service and dedication to the community.

“In total, this represents 3,179 years of combined service across the Lockhart District, within the Riverina Zone,” Dr McGirr said.

“There are 12 members who have each given 60 or more years’ service to their Brigade and their communities.

“Every one of the volunteers being recognised this week are worthy of our most sincere thanks and I personally commend them, not only for their commitment to the Service, but also to their community.”

Assistant Commissioner McKechnie makes particular mention of Kevin Bowyer, who will receive the Long Service Medal 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th and 5th Clasps in recognition of his 68 years of service.

“John joined the Service in 1950 at the age of 15 as a member of Urangeline Brigade, and has been a dual member with the Osborne Brigade since 1970,” Assistant Commissioner McKechnie said.

“I would also like to acknowledge Brookong Brigade member Ian Bender and Barry Smith of the Osborne Brigade for their respective 67 years’ service.

Assistant Commissioner McKechnie will also present two Long Service Medals posthumously to Noel Driscoll of the Yerong Creek Brigade recognising his 68 years’ dedicated service and to John Seberry on his 32 years with the Lockhart Central Brigade

“The hard work and professionalism of all Lockhart District volunteers does not go unnoticed and this will be a great opportunity for the broader community to express their gratitude and say thank you,” Assistant Commissioner McKechnie said.

“The dedication of these and all the volunteers being recognised is inspiring.”

“We must 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.

“It will be an absolute honor to present these awards and to take a moment in which we can reflect upon the outstanding achievements of these members and the untold benefit they have provided to their local communities.”