Long standing Clarence Valley volunteers recognised

NSW RFS Acting Director of Regional Services Chief Superintendent John Parnaby presented 82 volunteer firefighters with Long Service Medals at an official ceremony in Grafton, where he also handed over the keys to a brand new fire truck.

Chief Superintendent Parnaby said the volunteers from brigades across the Clarence Valley have each made an invaluable contribution to local communities and are the backbone of the NSW RFS.

"Between them, these men and women have served with distinction for close to 1,190 years.

"This is an inspirational achievement and a clear demonstration that the tradition of volunteering, and assisting the community in times of need is thriving in this region.

"I would particularly like to pay tribute to Scott Ellem and Margaret Daley who have been committed to their local brigades for more than 25 years.

"Their dedicated and steadfast leadership skills have served their communities well and, like all the recipients here today, they are most deserving of today's accolades," Chief Superintendent Parnaby said.

The volunteers were presented with their medals at today's ceremony where Chief Superintendent Parnaby also handed over the keys to a brand new bush fire truck to members of the Wooli Rural Fire Brigade.

"The NSW Rural Fire Service is committed to ensuring that our volunteers have the necessary equipment needed in order to carry out their valuable work.

"This new tanker is replacing the older style model and will help the volunteers continue protecting their communities in times of emergency."