Southern Highlands volunteers' commitment praised

NSW RFS Assistant Commissioner Bruce McDonald presented 79 volunteers with Long Service Medals and National Medals during a ceremony at the Bargo Sports Club.

"In total, these Long Service Medal and National Medal recipients have accumulated 1,593 years of service between them," Assistant Commissioner McDonald said.

"Each and every one of these volunteers are 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."

Assistant Commissioner McDonald made particular mention of Allan Isedale, who has been a valued member of the Woodlands Rural Fire Brigade for 47 years.

"Allan joined the Woodlands RFB in 1967 and has always made himself available to the Brigade when needed, whether it be responding to local call outs, out of area incidents or general duties at the station," Assistant Commissioner McDonald said.

"He held the position of Senior Deputy Captain for five years before taking on the role of Deputy Captain in 2007, a position he still holds today."

Assistant Commissioner McDonald said Brigades in the Southern Highlands area respond to a range of bush, grass and house fires, as well as motor vehicle accidents and other emergencies, each year.

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

"These men and women 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.

"All of the volunteers here today have demonstrated an outstanding level of commitment to their community over many years and these medals are just a small token of our appreciation."