State of the art equipment for Hunter Valley volunteers

NSW RFS Acting Director of Regional Services Chief Superintendent John Parnaby, presented the Members with their awards at an official ceremony at Muswellbrook Council Chambers, where he also handed over the keys to a new fire truck.

Chief Superintendent Parnaby said the volunteers from brigades across the Hunter Valley have all made an invaluable contribution to local communities and are the backbone of the NSW RFS.

"Between them, these men and women have served with distinction for almost 300 years.

"I would particularly like to acknowledge William Tindale and Les Nowland who have been committed to their local brigades for more than 50 and 60 years respectively. Their dedicated and steadfast leadership skills have served their communities well and, like all the recipients here today, they are well deserving of today's accolades," Chief Superintendent Parnaby said.

The volunteers were presented with their medals at today's ceremony where Chief Superintendent Parnaby also handed over the keys to a new bush fire truck worth a quarter of a million dollars.

"The NSW RFS is committed to ensuring that our volunteers have the necessary equipment needed in order to carry out their valuable work.

"This new tanker is replacing the older style model and will help the volunteers continue protecting their communities in times of emergency."

Chief Superintendent Parnaby also acknowledged the generosity of BHP Billiton who donated two thermal imaging cameras to the NSW RFS.

"This is a tremendous boost for both our volunteers and the community", he said.

NSW Energy Coal's Head of Health, Safety, Environment and Community, Sarah Withell said that Mt Arthur Coal happily funded the camera as part of its commitment to safety.

"Mt Arthur Coal is proud to offer its support to local volunteers who donate their time to protect the lives and property of everyone in our local community," Ms Withell said.