Volunteers recognised and new fire trucks for the New England area

An incredible 99 NSW Rural Fire Service (RFS) volunteers will be recognised in ceremonies hosted tonight and tomorrow, which will also see the handover of two firefighting trucks for the New England District.

Deputy Commissioner Peter McKechnie AFSM will be joined by special guests at the New England Fire Control Centre across both days to present 96 Long Service Medals, two National Emergency Medals, and a National Medal to volunteers with combined service of more than 2,300 years.

“These ceremonies are an opportunity to recognise the hard work and incredible contribution of all RFS volunteers across the region, particularly those who have dedicated decades of service,” Deputy Commissioner McKechnie said.

“Every single one of these members should be proud of themselves and their commitment to protecting local communities, including two nearing 70 years’ service – Peter Elliot celebrating 69 years and Allan McRae with 68 years of service.

“Receiving their Long Service Award 5^th clasp, Peter and Allan have been dedicated members since 1955 and 1956 respectively.

“Admired for his local knowledge, Peter has been a loyal member of Dangersleigh Brigade, like his father Roy and now son Tim, who is also receiving a Long Service Award for more than 20 years of service,

“Allan is celebrating this milestone with wife Patricia who is receiving her Long Service Award 5^th Clasp for 59 years of service, both dedicated members of the Wollomombi Brigade.

“A heart-felt special mention to posthumous medal recipient Robert (Bob) Simmons, a devoted member of the Dangersleigh Brigade since 1967 and receiving the Long Service Medal 4th Clasp for 50 years of dedicated service.”

Deputy Commissioner McKechnie said tomorrow’s ceremony also includes the handover of two single-cab fire trucks to the Bundarra and Lower Creek Brigades.

“It’s important RFS members have access to modern firefighting technology when preparing for and responding to fires and other incidents,” he said.

“These two new trucks, with a combined value of more than $420,000 include 1500 litre galvanised steel tanks, electric hose reels and the latest crew protection that will enable the brigades to strengthen their firefighting efforts in the local area.

“The efforts of RFS volunteers do not go unnoticed and these events provide an opportunity to publicly acknowledge the work of our volunteer bush firefighters, who are available to serve their communities.”