Lower North Coast receives $1 million boost in firefighting capability

Deputy Commissioner Peter McKechnie will be joined by special guests to present 36 Long Service Medals to volunteers with combined service of more than 870 years.

“Today is an opportunity to recognise the hard work and incredible contribution of all RFS volunteers across the region, particularly those who have dedicated decades of service,” Deputy Commissioner McKechnie said.

“Every single one of these members should be proud of themselves and their commitment to protecting local communities.

“I’d particularly like to recognise five members with more than 40 years’ service, including Frank Brownhill of North Macksville Brigade, Allen Donnelly of Warrell Creek Brigade, Frederickton Brigade’s Stephen Cooper and Robert Pogoriutschnig, along with Robert Willmer a member of both Frederickton and Aldavilla Brigades.”

Deputy Commissioner McKechnie said today’s ceremony also includes the handover of dual-cab fire trucks to the Stuarts Point, Hat Head, Valla Beach Brigades and a single cab to Grays Crossing Brigade.

“It’s important RFS members have access to modern firefighting technology when preparing for and responding to fires and other incidents,” he said.

“These new trucks, with a combined value of $1.09 million, will enable the brigades to strengthen their firefighting efforts in the local area.

“The efforts of RFS volunteers do not go unnoticed and today’s event provides a great opportunity to publicly acknowledge the outstanding work of our thousands of volunteer bush firefighters, who are available to serve their communities 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

“Whilst it’s important to provide them with the best equipment, we know it takes the ongoing support and patience of their families and employers to assist and enable them to do what they need to do to save lives and protect property.”