Long serving RFS volunteers thanked at award ceremony

he Namoi Gwydir District Rural Fire Service has received new firefighting vehicles and more than 60 NSW RFS volunteers have been recognised for their service at three ceremonies in the North-West.

A total of $1.1 million has been invested by the RFS in the four new vehicles handed over to the Namoi Gwydir District brigades last week.

RFS Deputy Commissioner, Kyle Stewart APM, was joined by Stephen Lawrence MLC and special guests in Narrabri for the presentation of 24 Long Service Medals and handover of two new firefighting trucks.

Long Service Medals are presented to members of the service in recognition of their 10 years of active service, with the addition of a clasp for every 10 years of additional service.

“With years of service ranging from 10 to 62 years, many of these volunteers have dedicated a significant portion of their life to protecting others,” Deputy Commissioner Stewart said.

“They include Group Captain Bill Pownall, Narrabri, who has given 60 years of service to the Wallah Brigade and local community.

“I am also pleased to handover a new Category 1 fire truck, which has the capacity to carry 3500 litres of water, to the Narrabri Brigade, and a Category 7 truck that has capability to hold more than 1100 litres of water, to the Tibbereena Brigade.”

Bohena Brigade’s Peter Gett, right, with Deputy Commissioner Kyle Stewart was awarded a 50 years active service Long Service Medal, 4th Clasp recognising 50 years of service. Mr Gett grew up in the Bohena/Yarrie Lake area and became involved with his family in brigade activities at an early age. He continued his support for the brigade, holding the position of Captain for 27 years between 1995 and 2022.

Bingara hosted the event to award 31 Long Service Medals and hand over a new Category 7 truck to the Oakey Brigade.

In Moree, when Ashley Brigade’s 20th anniversary was celebrated, a new Category 7 fire truck was handed over to the Boggabilla Brigade, and 14 volunteers recognised with long service medals.

“Among the medal recipients was Stuart Boydell who has been a member of the Tyreel Brigade since joining the RFS in 1962.

“Stuart has held the position of Captain for the past 59 years and is a worthy recipient of the 60 years Long Service Medal and 5th Clasp,” Deputy Commissioner Stewart said.

“His professionalism and dedication have not gone unnoticed and while he and other volunteers don’t do the work they do for praise, presentation events like these provide us with an opportunity to acknowledge his commitment.”

Mr Lawrence said it was important RFS members have access to modern firefighting technology. “Many RFS members go above and beyond for their brigades and local community, and it is fitting to recognise the dedication they all show,” Mr Lawrence said.

“I also acknowledge those who support volunteers in what they do – the family, friends, employers and colleagues. We know it takes their ongoing support and patience to assist and enable our volunteers to do what they do to save lives and protect property.”

See more on the award ceremony, as well as photos, in next Thursday’s Courier.