NSW RFS members awarded for service during 2019-20 fire season

At a special ceremony to be held tonight at Panthers North Richmond, NSW RFS Deputy Commissioner Peter McKechnie will present the medal to 43 members across the District who provided sustained or significant service during the devastating fire season

The National Emergency Medal is awarded to persons who rendered sustained or significant service during nationally-significant emergencies in Australia, including those members who gave so much during the 2019-2020 Bush Fires.

Deputy Commissioner McKechnie said members of the Hawkesbury District played an integral part in the firefighting response during that season, including the Gospers Mountain fire locally.

“Members rose to the challenge assisting local brigades and communities and also further afield across the state in a range of roles,” he said.

“It is an honour to recognise these dedicated professional volunteers, who give their all to help others.”

Tonight’s ceremony will also see 58 Long Service Medals and nine National Medals presented.

Deputy Commissioner McKechnie congratulated the medal recipients and thanked them for their dedication.

“These ceremonies recognise brigade members from across the region and thank them for their incredible contribution,” Deputy Commissioner McKechnie said.

“I would particularly like to congratulate Roberta Colbran on receiving the National Medal 2^nd Clasp, with 49 years with the Service. Roberta originally joined the Blacktown Brigade in 1973 and since then has been an exceptional member of the Grose Wold, Tennyson and Hawkesbury Communications brigades.

“The hard work and professionalism of all NSW RFS members does not go unnoticed and while they do not ask for praise, we should take every opportunity to acknowledge their contribution and commitment to their community.

“We also thank the family, friends, employers and colleagues of all NSW RFS volunteers. We know it takes their ongoing support and patience to assist and enable our volunteers to do what they do to save lives and property.”