Shoalhaven District volunteers’ commitment praised

NSW RFS Assistant Commissioner Steve Yorke presented 40 volunteers with Long Service Medals and three members with National Medals at a local ceremony.

"In total, these 43 medal recipients have accumulated 755 years of service between them," Assistant Commissioner Yorke said.

"Each and every one of these volunteers is 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 absolute honour to present these awards and to take a moment in which we can reflect upon the outstanding achievements of these members."

Assistant Commissioner Yorke said four of the medal recipients had individually given more than 30 years of dedicated service to their Brigades and local community.

"They have demonstrated an outstanding commitment to their community over many years and these medals are a fitting token of our appreciation," Assistant Commissioner Yorke said.

"These volunteers 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."

Assistant Commissioner Yorke said the 35 Brigades in the Shoalhaven District respond to a range of bush, grass and house fires, as well as motor vehicle accidents and other emergencies.

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