New station and medals for Bega Valley volunteer firefighters

Commissioner Fitzsimmons presented 41 volunteers with Long Service and National Medals at a ceremony held today to officially open the Tathra Rural Fire Brigade Station.

Commissioner Fitzsimmons said the volunteers had selflessly dedicated years to their communities and were always on hand to assist with fires and other emergencies right across the region.

"Between them, these 41 men and women have more than 1,150 years of experience in the Rural Fire Service. This is a remarkable achievement, with several of the recipients here today dedicating more than 40 or 50 years to their local brigades.

"I would particularly like to pay tribute to Phillip Collins who has been with the Candelo Rural Fire Brigade for more than 60 years.

"This is an inspirational achievement, and like all of the recipients here today, Mr Collins is most worthy of the community's gratitude and thanks."

Commissioner Fitzsimmons also officially opened Tathra's new Rural Fire Brigade station which is situated on land provided by Bega Valley Shire Council.

"It's evident that the Tathra RFS brigade is highly regarded within the local community with volunteers raising $13,000 to help fund the new building.

"The NSW RFS is committed to ensuring that our volunteers are equipped with the necessary equipment needed in order to go about their duties. This new station will help the volunteers continue their outstanding work in the community," he said.