Mid West NSW RFS volunteers praised

"Volunteers in the mid west are kept busy responding to a range of emergencies from bush and grass fires to house and car fires. All of the volunteers receiving accolades today are highly skilled, professional individuals worthy of our most sincere gratitude and respect.

"The broad knowledge base these ladies and gentlemen have of the Hay Shire and Carrathool District is extremely valuable to both their local community and the Service.

"As we look ahead to the inevitable return of fire conditions next summer their fellow brigade members will undoubtedly be turning to these individuals for their experience and leadership skills.

"This group of sixteen highly regarded volunteers have collectively provided their brigades and neighbours with more than 630 years dependable service. "I'd like to draw particular attention to five gentlemen who have been active members for more than 40 years; Jim Crossley, Ron Headon, Bede Schiller, Roly Desailly and Peter Lugsdin are all long standing volunteers who have dedicated a big part of their life to serving their community.

"Back in 1970 Peter Lugsdin joined the Area D Bush Fire Brigade and since that time his commitment to the Service has been unwavering.

"In addition to Peter's contribution to the mid west area, he has also lead strike teams responding to large scale incidents in other parts of the state.

"All of the members being recognised today give up their time selflessly, and are driven by their commitment to helping their communities in times of emergency.

"Although we have recently experienced unseasonably quiet bush fire seasons, this year we are seeing much higher than average grass growth as a result of the prolonged heavy rainfall.

"Looking ahead to the next fire season the community is relying on these experienced firefighters' valuable local knowledge and it is important they know their contribution is deeply appreciated," concluded Commissioner Fitzsimmons.