A total of 87 volunteers from the Mid Coast District were presented with National and Long Service Medals by Member for Myall Lakes Stephen Bromhead and NSW RFS Deputy Commissioner Rob Rogers AFSM at a special ceremony in Taree.

Mr Bromhead recognised that in total, these medal recipients have accumulated an impressive 2126 years of service between them.

“This is testament to the ongoing commitment shown by Mid Coast District volunteers to both the NSW RFS and the local community,” Mr Bromhead said.

“The hard work and professionalism of all Mid Coast District volunteers does not go unnoticed,” he said.

Deputy Commissioner Rob Rogers said one volunteer, Ronald Smith, was honoured for giving 61 years of dedicated service to his Brigade and the local community.

“Receiving the Long Service Medal 5th Clasp, Ronald has filled various ranks and been a member of a number of Brigades since joining the service 1956, from captain and president to group captain. Ronald’s extensive and continuing service as deputy captain and permit officer for the Diamond Beach Brigade illustrates that he is a worthy recipient of this award,” Deputy Commissioner Rogers said.

Four other volunteers were also recognized for more than 50 years of service to their Brigades, including Donald Gibson, an active member of the Killabakh Brigade since 1965, and Edward Gibson who joined the same year.

Deputy Commissioner Rogers also gave recognition to Elaine Alley who joined the Bulga Brigade in 1964 and Douglas Weller, a founding member of the Nabiac Brigade back in 1960.

“Today’s recipients, as do all NSW RFS volunteers, dedicate themselves to providing a vital service to the community and these medals are our proud acknowledgement of their efforts,” deputy commissioner Rogers said.

“It is an absolute honor to present these awards and to take a moment in which we can reflect upon the outstanding achievements of these members.”