Members of the NSW Rural Fire Service (RFS) Far South Coast District were recognised for their dedication and achievements in protecting communities at special ceremonies held over the weekend in Bega and Moruya. It was a unique opportunity to honour the efforts of those who took part in the firefighting campaign during the 2019-20 Fire Season and those who have given so much to their community.
Some of the longest-serving RFS members within the Far South Coast District were recognised with National Emergency Medals, National Medals, Long Service Medals and Commissioners Certificate of Commendations being awarded as well as handing over 11 replacement ultra-light fire trucks.
The Medal recipients from across the Far South Coast, from Long Beach to Wonboyn, had together given a total of more than 556 years of service.
Commissioner’s Certificates of Commendation were also presented to the Bemboka, Eurobodalla Volunteer Operations Support and Malua Bay Brigades for their tireless and sustained efforts during the 2019-20 Black Summer Fires.
“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 on the Far South Coast," said Superintendent Barnes.
Local RFS Brigades also celebrated the official handover of 11 replacement ultra-light fire trucks that will assist Far South Coast volunteers provide an even greater level of fire protection to the local community.
The keys to the new and improved vehicles were handed over to Bemboka, Buckajo, Burragate, Candelo, Eden, Jellat, Kiah, Quaama, Rocky Hall, Tathra, Wonboyn and Wyndham Rural Fire Brigades.
The trucks recently handed over will better equip members to respond to a range of emergencies, including bush and grass fires.

Above – NSW RFS Superintendent Angus Barnes and Bega Valley Mayor Russell Fitzpatrick hand over the keys to a new truck for the Eden Brigade to Senior Deputy Captain Jeffrey Whiter and Deputy Captain Robert Aucote.

Above: Bemboka Rural Fire Brigade Captain, John Inskip and Firefighter Andrew Inskip receive the Commissioners Certificate of Commendation from Bega Valley Mayor Russell Fitzpatrick and Superintendent Angus Barnes.

Above: – RFS Deputy Commissioner Kyle Stewart APM and Eurobodalla Shire Mayor Matthew Hatcher present Bruce Smith his 60 year Long Service Clasp alongside his wife, Barb and daughter, Kerrie.

Above: RFS Deputy Commissioner Kyle Stewart APM and Eurobodalla Shire Mayor Matthew
Hatcher present Captain Danielle Brice, President Gerard Simms and past President Peter Anderson with a Commissioners Certificate of Commendation for the Eurobodalla Volunteer Operations Support Brigade.

Above: RFS Deputy Commissioner Kyle Stewart APM and Eurobodalla Shire Mayor Matthew
Hatcher present Captain Berkeley Braham, President David Beare, former Senior Deputy Captain Pat Harris and past President Peter Anderson with a Commissioners Certificate of Commendation for the Malua Bay Rural Fire Brigade.

Ultra-Light Trucks ready to be handed over Photos: E. Walker & A. Blackman (NSW RFS)

Above: The Federal Member for Eden Monaro, Kristi McBain said "Congratulations to the Bemboka RFS brigade on receiving a NSW Commissioner’s Certificate of Commendation for their tireless and sustained efforts across three Section 44 fires in 18 months - including the 2019-20 Black Summer Bushfires.
"The brigade responded to the Tathra fire, the Yankees Gap fire and the Black Summer Bushfires. These were relentless campaigns and the dedication and bravery of the Bemboka volunteers saved homes, saved lives and saved the Bemboka village.
This is much deserved recognition for the brigade and I’m glad I was able to attend the special ceremony and give my heartfelt thanks".