South West Slopes RFS Team celebrates new stations and medal recipients

Member for Cootamundra, Steph Cooke and NSW RFS Area Commander, Chief Superintendent, Ian Stewart AFSM will join members to mark the occasion for the Dudauman, Berremangra and Crowther Brigades while also celebrating 35 long serving members with 1,486 years of service between them.

Ms Cooke said the new stations have allowed local brigades to house their current vehicles and provide better amenities for volunteers to protect their communities.

“All three new stations have replaced farm sheds which previously housed the Brigades’ tankers and I am sure they will be greatly welcomed by the volunteers and the local communities,” she said.

Seven Dudauman Brigade members, 17 Berremangra members and 11 Crowther members will also receive long service medals and/or clasps at the ceremonies this weekend, ranging from 23 years to 69 years’ of service. Some of the longest serving members include: Peter Leahey for 69 years of service at Dudauman Brigade, David Johnson for 68 years at Crowther Brigade and Allan Sharp and Brian Bingley for 64 years’ service each at Berremangra Brigade.

“Congratulations to all of the medal recipients on their dedication, commitment and service to their communities,” Chief Supt Stewart said. “You only have to look at the last season to see how hard our skilled firefighters and support crews work to keep us safe when bush and grass fires and emergency situations threaten.”

Chief Supt Stewart said the NSW RFS is committed to providing volunteer firefighters with the equipment, infrastructure and resources they need to carry out the important work of protecting their local communities from fire and a diverse array of incidents.

“I would like to take this time to praise all our volunteers for their ongoing efforts each and every day, particularly when dealing with emergencies here in the South West Slopes.

“We also thank the family, friends, employers and colleagues of these and all volunteers. We know it takes their ongoing support and patience which in turn enables Rural Fire Service volunteers to do what they do to save lives and property.”