NSW Nationals Member for Dubbo Dugald Saunders joined Minister for Police and Emergency Services David Elliott and NSW Rural Fire Service commissioner Rob Rogers on Saturday to recognise 32 members of the Orana team with NSW Premier’s Citations for their outstanding service during the 2019/2020 bushfires.
Mr Saunders said volunteers from all over NSW had combined to help the state get through a horrific period, and that he was proud to see such recognition for members of the Elong Elong, Gollan, Geurie and Comobella brigades.
“With everything that has happened, the 2019/20 bushfire season seems like such a long time ago, but it is important that those people who were involved in helping communities across the state are recognised,” he said.
“Some members of our local RFS brigades were involved in ensuring fires didn’t get out-of-hand in our local area, while others ventured to other parts of the state to help with operations.
“But everyone should be proud of the role they played, and these citations are a wonderful recognition of the response.”
Commissioner Rogers applauded their efforts and said the NSW RFS was committed to providing volunteer firefighters with the equipment, infrastructure and resources they need to carry out the important work of protecting their local communities from fire and a diverse array of incidents.
“I would like to take this time to praise all our volunteers for their ongoing efforts each and every day, particularly when dealing with emergencies here in the Orana,” he said.
“We also thank the families, friends, employers and colleagues of these and all of our volunteers. We know it takes their ongoing support and patience which in turn enables NSW Rural Fire Service volunteers to do what they do to save lives and property.”
