National medals, long service awards and Commissioner's Certificates of Appreciation were presented at the Binda and Cunningham cluster awards nights, shining a light on everyday people who give their time to protect their towns and neighbours when floods, storms and emergencies strike.
One of those volunteers is Lake Cargelligo Unit Commander, Ray Coff, who has reached an incredible 30 years of service.
Inspector Coff joined the SES back in 1994 after his son encouraged him to give it a go. Not long after, he took on the role of Unit Commander, a position he still proudly holds today.
"In a small town like ours, people often come and go to find work elsewhere, but I've just stayed put," Inspector Coff said.
"My son wanted me to join, but 30 years later I'm still here."
Inspector Coff said he holds many memories of his time at the SES, some difficult, some rewarding, but one moment he will never forget was the day Lake Cargelligo's water tower collapsed in 2002.
"Sadly, lives were lost and people were badly injured. I remember sitting right on top of the tower, directing traffic while crews worked below."
Looking back, Inspector Coff says much has changed during his three decades of volunteering.
"Everything's different now, but for the better. From the trucks to the gear, to the technology we use every day. The Service has come such a long way."
Another familiar face in the Central West, Sherry Morgan, was recognised for her own 30 years of service with the Peak Hill Unit.
Ms Morgan joined after her husband encouraged her to sign up so they could volunteer together. She's been the rock of the small Peak Hill team ever since.
"I've stayed because the Unit needed the help and because of the people," Ms Morgan said.
"We're a small crew, but we're like family. We laugh, we joke and when it's time to get the job done, we just get in and do it."
Over the years, she has seen the best and worst of what life can throw at a community.
"Some jobs are hard to forget, like when we lose young lives to drownings or floodwaters. But sometimes the most important thing we can do is just sit with a family, listen, and be there for them."
Ms Morgan encourages others, especially younger locals, to consider joining.
"You learn skills you'll keep forever and you don't have to do anything you're not comfortable with. There's always a way to help."
Southern Zone Commander, Chief Superintendent Ben Pickup, said volunteers like Ray and Sherry are the heart of the Service.
"Thirty years of volunteering is an extraordinary gift to your community," Chief Superintendent Pickup said.
"Ray and Sherry, and so many others across the Central West, remind us that the NSW SES is built on people who care deeply about their towns. Their leadership and dedication inspire us all."
