Two Illawarra Zone brigades celebrate 75 years of service

Summary

Both the Dapto and Jamberoo Rural Fire Brigades have proudly served and protected their local communities since they were formed in 1940 and today, members gathered to celebrate a milestone anniversary and the achievements of veteran volunteers

NSW Rural Fire Service (NSW RFS) Assistant Commissioner Stuart Midgley said he was honoured to join members at Jamberoo in celebrating 75 years of community service.

"I would like to say a sincere thank you to past and present Dapto and Jamberoo volunteers for the time and effort they have devoted to their Brigades and also thank their families and loved ones for their ongoing support," Assistant Commissioner Midgley said.

"Both the Dapto and Jamberoo Brigades are well respected and I know they will continue to serve the local community for many years to come.

"Their hard work and professionalism doesn't go unnoticed and this 75 year anniversary is a great opportunity for the broader community to express their gratitude and say thank you."

Assistant Commissioner Midgley said members of both Brigades attend a wide range of fire incidents locally and share their experience and firefighting skills further afield when required.

"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 Illawarra," Assistant Commissioner Midgley said.

Assistant Commissioner Midgley also had the honour of presenting 11 Long Service Medals to volunteers, who have accumulated 220 years of service between them.

"I would like to make particular mention of John Fry and John Downe, who are being recognised with Long Service Medals for 40 and 50 years of service respectively," Assistant Commissioner Midgley 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.

"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."

Ms Bronwyn Jones, Executive Director, Membership and Strategic Services attended the Dapto 75th anniversary celebration.