Central Coast members celebrated at Volunteer Appreciation Day

NSW Rural Fire Service (RFS) volunteer members of the Central Coast District will be recognised for their efforts today at a special event, which coincides with National Volunteer Week.

The Central Coast Volunteer Appreciation Day will acknowledge the hard work and dedication of 118 of the District’s members, who will be presented with medals and awards in honour of more than 2,450 years’ service between them.

Commissioner of the RFS Rob Rogers will join RFS Central Coast District Manager, Superintendent Viki Campbell and special guests at Mingara Recreation Club to present five National Emergency Medals, 43 National Medals, 73 Long Service Medals, and three Commissioner’s Unit Citation St Florian’s Day Awards.

Commissioner Rogers said the National Emergency Medal recognises sustained or significant service during nationally-significant emergencies in Australia.

“These members not only gave their time to protect others during large-scale emergencies like the devastating 2019-20 fire season, but are at the ready each and every day to respond to emergencies here on the Central Coast,” Commissioner Rogers said.

“Today we will present Long Service and National Medals and/or clasps to recognise decades of service, with a special acknowledgement of Russell Deaves of Wyee Brigade who will be awarded his Long Service Medal 5^th Clasp for his 63 years’ protecting others.

“I am also pleased to present the Commissioner’s Unit Citations for Service to the Lake Munmorah and Gwandalan Brigade members, as well as Central Coast members of the Aviation Rescue Crew, recognising their courageous actions, particularly during the prolonged and unprecedented floods of 2022.”

Superintendent Campbell thanked members of the Central Coast District for their dedication in responding to emergencies 365 days of the year.

“The hard work and professionalism of all Central Coast RFS members does not go unnoticed and while they do not ask for praise, today is an opportunity to acknowledge their incredible contribution,” she said.

“We also thank the family, friends, employers and colleagues of all RFS volunteers. Your ongoing support enables our members to do the important work they do.

“Every single one of the members awarded today should be proud of themselves and their dedication to protecting communities.”