Tribute to emergency service volunteers

Summary

Minister for Police and Emergency Services Stuart Ayres has paid tribute to NSW emergency service volunteers who have lost their lives while protecting others.

This year marks the 14th annual Emergency Services Volunteer Memorial Service at Mrs Macquarie's Point since the dedication of the Memorial in 2001.

There are currently more than 88,000 volunteers who make up the:

  • NSW Rural Fire Service (RFS)
  • NSW State Emergency Service (SES)
  • Marine Rescue NSW
  • Volunteer Rescue Association

"Today we honour the brave men and women from the RFS, SES, Marine Rescue NSW and the Volunteer Rescue Association who help their communities in times of need," Mr Ayres said.

"When emergencies like bushfires, floods and storms unfold, these selfless volunteers stand shoulder to shoulder, often putting their own lives at risk, protecting others.

"The 87 names inscribed here are a stark reminder of the dangerous work our volunteers do.
"Tragically this year we add an RFS volunteer to the Memorial; that of Deputy Captain of Kyogle, Peter Witton.

"Today we pay tribute to those who have lost their lives but we also pause to recognise our serving volunteers. Without them NSW would be the poorer, our communities less resilient and our people more vulnerable to emergency situations," Mr Ayres concluded.