Praise for dedicated Mid Coast District members

Volunteers and staff from the Mid Coast District were presented with Long Service Medals along with one National Medal, by Member for Port Macquarie Leslie Williams and NSW RFS Assistant Commissioner Rebel Talbert at a special ceremony in Port Macquarie.

Mrs Williams recognised that in total, these medal recipients have accumulated an impressive 1536 years of service between them.

“This is testament to the ongoing commitment shown by Mid Coast District volunteers to both the NSW RFS and the local community,” Mrs Williams said.

Assistant Commissioner Rebel Talbert said one volunteer, Alan Hagney, was honoured for giving 60 years of dedicated service to his Brigade and the local community.

“Receiving the Long Service Medal 5th Clasp, Alan has filled various ranks and positions and been a member of a number of Brigades since joining the service in the 1950’s,” Assistant Commissioner Talbert said.

“Alan became a member of the Camden Haven Brigade in 1996, served as Captain for four years from 2002 and continues to use his vast experience and knowledge in his current role of Deputy Captain and Training Officer.

Five other volunteers were also recognized for more than 40 years of service to their Brigades, including Howard Mitchell, a member of the Long Flat/Ellenborough Brigade and Alexander Lockley from the Bonny Hills Brigade, who both received Long Service Awards for 46 years.

Assistant Commissioner Talbert also praised Ugo Talone for his National Medal recognizing 20 years’ service and being instrumental to the design and construction of the Lake Cathie Brigade Station, a brigade he joined in 1997.

“The hard work and professionalism of all Mid Coast District volunteers and staff does not go unnoticed,” Assistant Commissioner Talbert said.

“Today’s recipients, as do all NSW RFS members, dedicate themselves to providing a vital service to the community and these medals are our proud acknowledgement of their efforts.”