Superintendent Paul Metcalfe has joined by special guests and fellow NSW Rural Fire Service (RFS) members to present medals and officially handover three cutting-edge firefighting trucks at a ceremony at Pallamallawa & District Rural Fire Brigade.
Sunday’s event saw the presentation of 19 RFS Long Service Medals, acknowledging over 500 years of combined volunteer service, a testament to the enduring commitment of local brigade members.
Superintendent Metcalfe said the gathering would also mark the formal handover of new firefighting vehicles to the Bingara, Moree, and Pallamallawa & District Brigades, further strengthening response capacity ahead of the upcoming fire season.
“These ceremonies offer a chance to express our gratitude and acknowledge the extraordinary efforts of our volunteers,” Superintendent Metcalfe said.
“Each medal signifies a story of dedication, sacrifice and community spirit, in many cases spanning several decades.
“To be recognising over five centuries of combined service is simply remarkable, and it speaks to the strong spirit of volunteering that exists in these rural communities,” he said.
Superintendent Paul Metcalfe gave a special mention to Group Captain Paul Shaw and Firefighter Peter Turnbull, with 58 and 52 years of service to their community.
“Appointed as the first Group Officer in the Moree Plains and Cunningham Zone in 1999, Paul has been a driving force in youth engagement, establishing the state’s first school-based cadet program in 2002.”
“Since 1973, Peter has shown unwavering dedication to the RFS, earning deep respect for his knowledge and commitment to his brigade and community.” Superintendent Metcalfe said.
The three new firefighting trucks, worth more than $1 million, form part of the RFS’s continued investment in strengthening emergency response in regional and remote areas.
“These vehicles will significantly enhance the ability of our frontline crews to respond swiftly and effectively,” Superintendent Metcalfe said.
“Brigades in this region often contend with remote and challenging landscapes. This new fleet ensures they are better equipped and supported.
“Providing modern, dependable equipment is essential to ensuring our volunteers have what they need to protect lives, property and the environment,” he said.
Media release: NSW Rural Fire Service
