Narrabri’s Fire and Rescue team has been awarded the NSW Premier’s Bushfire Emergency Citation for its efforts during the 2019/20 bushfires.
Teams from NSW RFS and Fire and Rescue NSW responded to over 11,000 fires between June 2019 and May 2020, earning them the prestigious honour.
The Bushfire Emergency Citation includes a certificate of recognition, commemorative cap and a letter from NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian thanking the firefighters for their service.
An informal ceremony was held at the Narrabri fire station, with NSW Minister for Emergency Services David Elliott AFSM and Jeremy Fewtrell AFSM Deputy Commissioner in attendance.
Zone commander New England and North West, Superintendent Tom Cooper, explained the significance of the citations.
“This is the first time anyone has received this honour,” he said.
“The citations were created because of the unprecedented nature of the bushfires.”
The award ceremony coincided with the official handover of the new fire truck, which was important to the Minister, according to Supt Cooper.
“We thought it was a good opportunity for the Narrabri team to receive their awards while the Minister was visiting the town, because he’s very passionate about the firefighters being presented with the awards in person,” he said.
Mr Elliott echoed this sentiment when he met the Narrabri team on the day.
“The job you do does not go unnoticed, and these citations reflect the risk you all took – putting your lives on the line for the good of your community – to fight the unprecedented bushfires,” he said.
“So, it was important for me to meet you all and shake your hand, to thank you for your efforts, rather than having you receive the awards in the mail.”
Mr Elliott said the decorations echo the NSW Premier’s sincere thanks.
“This is a small but symbolic way for us to acknowledge the important work you do,” he said.
“I want you all to display this honour proudly – don’t just bury it away, and make sure you show your loved ones.”
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