Volunteer Appreciation Day honours Central Coast members

Coinciding with National Volunteer Week, the Volunteer Appreciation Day will acknowledge the efforts of NSW RFS members and present 20 National Emergency Medals, 9 National Medals, 35 Long Service Medals, and three Commissioners Commendation for Service St Florian’s Day Awards.

Member for Terrigal Mr Adam Crouch and NSW RFS Acting Hunter Area Commander, Superintendent Kam Baker will join guests at Mingara Recreation Club to celebrate the occasion.

Mr Crouch said the National Emergency Medal is awarded to persons who rendered sustained or significant service during nationally-significant emergencies in Australia.

“Members of the Central Coast District played an integral part in the firefighting response during the 2019/20 fire season and rose to the challenge to protect communities locally and further afield,” he said.

“The members being recognised today with long service and national medals and or clasps range from 10 to 56 years of service, with a special mention of Ian Bartholomew AFSM who is receiving his National Medal 3^rd and 4^th Clasp and Long Service Medal 3^rd Clasp for 56 year after joining the Pearl Beach Brigade in 1966.”

Superintendent Baker noted today there is a total of 42 recipients being presented with 49 long service and/or National Medals, recognising a total of 847 years of service.

“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 Central Coast area,” Superintendent Baker said.

“The hard work and professionalism of all NSW RFS members does not go unnoticed and while they do not ask for praise, we should take this opportunity to acknowledge their contribution and commitment to their communities.

“We also thank the family, friends, employers and colleagues of all NSW RFS volunteers. We know it takes their ongoing support."

Superintendent Baker praised the hard work and incredible contribution of brigade members across the region.

“Every single one of these members should be proud of themselves and their dedication to protecting communities,” he said.