Mid Lachlan Valley honours veteran volunteers as Back Yamma Brigade celebrates new station fire truck

At a ceremony held at the new Back Yamma Rural Fire Brigade Station, Member for Cootamundra Steph Cooke MP and NSW RFS Assistant Commissioner Steve Yorke AFSM presented 32 Long Service Medals to volunteers from the Back Yamma in recognition of their service and dedication to the community.

Ms Cooke said that in total, these awards represented 1,355 years of combined service in the Mid Lachlan Valley Team area.

“These medals are a proud acknowledgement of the volunteers’ dedication to protecting their community and the commitment they have given to their brigade,” Ms Cooke said.

Assistant Commissioner Yorke made particular mention of David Mason, who has received the Long Service Medal in recognition of his 68 years of service.

“David joined the Rural Fire Service in 1950 and has been involved in many varied incidents through the decades.

“His dedication is appreciated and his experience highly valued.

“I would also like to acknowledge George Hooper and Keith Allen, both being recognised for their 65 years’ active service after joining in 1973.

Assistant Commissioner Yorke said the hard work and professionalism of all Back Yamma Brigade members does not go unnoticed and this is a great opportunity for the broader community to express their gratitude and say thank you.

“We must also thank the family, friends and colleagues of all our volunteers,” Assistant Commissioner Yorke said.

“We know it takes their support and patience to help Rural Fire Service members do what they do.”

During the ceremony, a new Category 6 tanker was also officially handed over to the Back Yamma Brigade, worth more than $400,000.

"This new vehicle, replacing an older style model, will enable the brigade to continue their outstanding work and I would personally like to congratulate everybody on their ongoing hard work and professionalism,” Assistant Commissioner Yorke said.