Kamala Wheeler announced as recipient of volunteer award

The Centre for Volunteering has recognised the remarkable contributions of Kamala Wheeler, leading senior operator at the Moree NSW State Emergency Service Unit, naming her the 2025 Adult Volunteer of the Year.

The award was among several honours announced at a ceremony in Sydney.

With nearly 40 years of service, Kamala has been a pivotal rescuer, trainer, and leader across the North West region.

She has led major flood recovery operations in Moree and Garah, supported frontline crews during Cyclone Alfred, and ran regular weekend training courses to strengthen capability of volunteers across the region.

Kamala is also a passionate advocate for developing the next generation of emergency responders.

Through her involvement in the Girls on Fire program, she helps young people aged 15 to 19 build confidence and develop essential disaster management and emergency response skills.

NSW SES Commissioner Mike Wassing congratulated Kamala on her achievements and thanked her for her decades of service.

“We proudly congratulate Kamala on this well-earned honour and thank her for her remarkable contribution to the NSW SES. Her leadership, dedication and commitment make her an invaluable member of our organisation,” Comm Wassing said.

“We also extend our sincere thanks to The Centre for Volunteering for celebrating the work of volunteers across the state.”

The Centre for Volunteering CEO Gemma Rygate said Kamala is an exceptional, third generation emergency volunteer who has gone above and beyond for her local community for more than 40 years.

“She has led flood recovery operations, supported frontline crews during Cyclone Alfred and is helping to mentor the next generation of emergency volunteers across the state’s north-west,” Ms Rygate said.

“She is a very deserving recipient of the 2025 NSW Adult Volunteer of the Year Award.”