A local volunteer firefighter and a community-based brigade are amongst hundreds of volunteer firefighters from across NSW have been recognised today [May 4] with prestigious awards from the NSW Rural Fire Service (NSW RFS).
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The awards are part of the Service's annual commendations for exceptional service and bravery.
Firefighter Melody Lovelace from the Manyana Brigade received a Commissioner's Commendation for Service [Individual] and the Bawley Point Brigade got a Commissioner's Unit Citation for Service.
Police and Emergency Services Minister David Elliott joined NSW RFS Commissioner Rob Rogers and Resilience NSW Commissioner Shane Fitzsimmons helped conduct the award ceremony.
Some awards were presented today with other commendations to be issued at regional ceremonies to be held in the coming weeks.
Usually held on May 4 each year, the award ceremony coincides with the Feast Day of St Florian, Patron Saint of Firefighters and International Firefighters' Day.
Minister David Elliott said the event was an opportunity to come together to officially thank NSW RFS volunteers for their ongoing hard work and professionalism.
"We are enormously grateful for these men and women who selflessly serve our communities and respond to all types of fires and emergencies around the clock. We pay tribute to those brave members and their dedication to protect the irreplaceable," Mr Elliott said.
Commissioner Rogers said this year's recipients demonstrated extreme acts of bravery in the face of horrific conditions experienced during the 2019/2020 Black Summer bush fires, and includes recipients for 2020 who were unable to receive their commendation due to COVID-19 restrictions last year.
Commissioner Rogers also announced that all NSW RFS Members who played a role in the 2019/2020 Black Summer bush fires will receive a Commissioner's Certificate for Service, for their contribution to protecting people and property during one of the most devastating fire seasons in history.
