VRA’s Jock Smith named runner-up at community awards

Narrabri Volunteer Rescue Association member Jock Smith is the toast of the local emergency service after being named as a runner-up at the Rotary Emergency Services Community Awards.

Mr Smith, a VRA member since 2015, received the honour for the Dorothy Hennessy Emergency Services Youth Scholarship, an accolade which recognises volunteers up to 25-years-old.

The state-wide awards are an initiative of the Rotary districts of NSW.

President of the Rotary Club of Narrabri, Darrell Tiemens, presented Mr Smith with his trophy. Joining them for the special occasion was local VRA captain John Hardgrave.

Mr Smith was nominated for the honour for his efforts as a rope operator during a rescue mission near the summit of Mount Kaputar.

He escorted an ambulance paramedic to a ledge 20 metres below the summit to retrieve the most seriously injured of the three casualties.

“Over five hours, he went to the ledge multiple times and got everyone out. But though exhausted, Jock was so committed, he would undoubtedly have gone back again,” his citation reads.

Reflecting on the honour, Mr Smith said he enjoyed being able to give back to the community.

He acknowledged the work done by all emergency services across the state.

Mr Hardgrave said the VRA was proud of Mr Smith and particularly praised his dedication.