Lower North Coast Team volunteers honoured

NSW RFS Commissioner Shane Fitzsimmons AFSM will present 42 Long Service Medals and 14 National Medals to 50 volunteers in recognition of their service and dedication to the community.

“In total, this represents 1,155 years of combined service across the Lower North Coast area,” Commissioner Fitzsimmons said.

Commissioner Fitzsimmons makes particular mention of Group Captain (Retired) Darryl Lang, who will receive the Long Service Medal 5th Clasp in recognition of his 61 years of service.

“Darryl joined the Gumma Brigade in 1957, where he was Captain for 14 years,” Commissioner Fitzsimmons said.

“Darryl also held the rank of Deputy Group Captain and Group Captain before retiring in 2012. His leadership and commitment to developing the skills of volunteers in the Nambucca region is commendable.”

Commissioner Fitzsimmons will also pay tribute to Stephen Flockton, a well-respected member who sadly passed away last year.

“I am humbled to present Stephen’s family with his National Medal 1st Clasp in recognition of his distinguished service to fire agencies across three states for more than 25 years.

“Stephen devoted countless hours to the NSW RFS as Senior Deputy Captain and Captain of the Eungai Brigade for five years, where he mentored so many members across the region.”

Commissioner Fitzsimmons said the hard work and professionalism of all Lower North Coast Team volunteers does not go unnoticed and every one of the volunteers being recognised this week are worthy of our gratitude and sincere thanks.

“It will be an absolute honour to present these awards and to take a moment in which we can reflect upon the outstanding achievements of these members.”