Mid Lachlan Valley honours long serving volunteers and welcomes new firefighting tanker

Member for Cootamundra Steph Cooke and NSW RFS Assistant Commissioner Jason Heffernan presented 20 recipients from the Quandialla Brigade with Long Service Medals, at a ceremony held at the Weddin Fire Control Centre.

“The members being honoured today have together dedicated 741 years of service to the local community,” Ms Cooke said.

“These medals are our proud acknowledgment of tireless devotion to protecting the Mid Lachlan Valley from fire and other emergencies,” Ms Cooke said.

Assistant Commissioner Heffernan noted four members had dedicated 50 or more years to the Service.

“I would particularly like to acknowledge Bevan McAlister, who is today receiving the Long Service Medal 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th and 5th Clasps in recognition of his 62 of service to the Quandialla Rural Fire Brigade,” Assistant Commissioner Heffernan said.

“Bevan joined the brigade back in 1956 and I must congratulate him on holding the rank of Captain for 42 years, since elected back in 1975 and for being a Group Captain for the Weddin area for 41 years.”

Assistant Commissioner Heffernan said the occasion was the perfect opportunity for the community to acknowledge and pay tribute to the efforts of local volunteers and their families.

“Their hard work and professionalism does not go unnoticed and today’s event allows us as a community to express our gratitude and say thank you to all NSW RFS members,” Assistant Commissioner Heffernan said.

A Category 1 tanker was also officially handed over to the Emu Creek Rural Fire Brigade at the ceremony.

“This vehicle represents a $370,000 investment in the local community, replacing the older unit and will enable the brigade to continue their outstanding work providing a world-class level of fire protection to their local community,” Assistant Commissioner Heffernan said.

“The NSW RFS and state and local governments are committed to providing volunteer firefighters with the equipment they need to carry out the important work they do.”