Northern Beaches volunteers celebrated for long service

Summary

The NSW Rural Fire Service (NSW RFS) Northern Beaches District tonight recognised and celebrated the dedication and commitment of long serving members.

Member for Manly James Griffin joined NSW RFS Commissioner Shane Fitzsimmons to present 50 recipients with Long Service and National Medals at a special ceremony today.

“These members do not volunteer their time for the accolades, however these medals are a proud acknowledgement of the commitment shown by these individuals over the years,” Mr Griffin said.

“There is more than 1,000 years of service being recognised, and I know that the community is thankful for the world-class level of fire protection afforded to them by volunteers across the Northern Beaches.

“I would also like to personally extend my gratitude to all of our hard-working firies for your continued dedicated service to and for the community.”

Commissioner Fitzsimmons said it was an honour to present Alan Brinkworth AFSM with the 3rd Clasp of his National Medal.

“Alan has given 45 years of diligent service both in a voluntary and salaried capacity, which is a remarkable achievement,” Commissioner Fitzsimmons said.

“Overseeing the organisation’s response to a number of emergency operations, Alan has played an instrumental role in shaping the Service into the leading firefighting agency it is today.

“Alan was appointed Honorary Historian following his retirement in 2013 and remains an active member of Terrey Hills Brigade today.”

Commissioner Fitzsimmons also commended Jeff Cree AFSM for his 50 years of service.

“Since joining the Service in 1968, Jeff has filled many positions including Captain and Group Officer,” said Commissioner Fitzsimmons.

“Jeff continues to work tirelessly in training members across the Northern Beaches. His passion and dedication to improving training for volunteers has directly attributed to the high standard of training across the Northern Beaches today.”

Commissioner Fitzsimmons said that each volunteer being recognised has demonstrated an exceptional level of commitment to their community.

“We continually see how hard our skilled firefighters work to keep us safe and I offer my sincere thanks and gratitude to all the NSW RFS staff and volunteers for their outstanding efforts.

“We must also thank the family, friends and colleagues of all these and all volunteers. We know it takes their support and patience to help Rural Fire Service members do what they do.”

Contact Name: State Duty Media Officer

Contact Phone: (02) 9898 1855