Northern Tablelands volunteers' commitment praised

NSW RFS Assistant Commissioner Bruce McDonald presented 17 volunteers with Long Service Medals during a ceremony at the Glen Innes Returned Services Club.

"In total, these Long Service Medal recipients have accumulated 331 years of service between them," Assistant Commissioner McDonald said.

"Each and every one of these volunteers are worthy of our most sincere thanks and I would like to personally commend them, not only for their commitment to the Service, but also to their community.

"It is an honour to present these awards and reflect upon the outstanding achievements of these members.

"They have demonstrated an exceptional level of commitment to their community over many years and these medals are just a small token of our appreciation."

Assistant Commissioner McDonald said the 48 Brigades in the Northern Tablelands area respond to a range of bush, grass and house fires, as well as motor vehicle accidents and other emergencies, each year.

"The NSW RFS is at the cutting edge of bush firefighting due to significant improvements in technology, training, equipment and communications, however the real strength of the Service is its people," Assistant Commissioner McDonald said.

"These men and women have been part of the Service during an incredible period of growth and transformation and the vast experience and knowledge within their ranks has been an integral component of this development.

"Their hard work and professionalism doesn't go unnoticed and this is also a great opportunity for the community to express their gratitude and say thank you."