The awards recognised decades of dedicated service and the significant contribution NSW SES members have made supporting communities through some of the state's most challenging emergencies.
The ceremony included 170 National Emergency Medal presentations, acknowledging members who supported communities during the devastating 2019-20 bushfires and February 2022 floods.
From late February to early April 2022, NSW experienced catastrophic flooding across the east coast and parts of western NSW. In some areas, flooding reached levels never seen before. NSW SES members worked throughout the prolonged emergency to support flood-affected communities, including in some of the hardest-hit areas of the state.
Among those recognised was Sydney based, Peter Cinque, who received the fourth clasp to the National Medal for 55 years of long service to the NSW SES.
Peter began his NSW SES journey as a cadet at Blacktown in 1971, before going on to more than five decades of volunteer and staff service. He has held key operational and leadership roles and become a leading authority on flood risk, particularly in the Hawkesbury-Nepean Valley.
Also recognised for 35 years of service were Illawarra based, Jennifer North and Elizabeth Troiani, who each received the National Medal 2nd Clasp and NSW SES 35 Year Long Service Award. Jennifer was recognised for her sustained commitment including supporting NSW SES during significant flood and bushfire emergencies. Elizabeth was recognised for her longstanding contribution providing trusted executive support to successive Commissioners and senior leaders and helping coordinate significant organisational events and milestones.
NSW SES Commissioner Mike Wassing said the awards provided an opportunity to celebrate the dedication, professionalism and commitment of members who had given so much to their communities.
"These awards recognise the extraordinary commitment of our people, whether responding to major emergencies, supporting communities through challenging times or giving their time year after year to help keep people safe," Commissioner Wassing said.
"It is particularly significant to recognise the contribution our members made during the February 2022 floods. Their courage and dedication made a lasting impact on the people of NSW, and these medals serve as well-deserved recognition of their outstanding service.
"To have members recognised for 55, 35 and 20 years of service is an incredible achievement and speaks to the strength and commitment of our Service."
"On behalf of the NSW SES, I thank every recipient for their dedication and the lasting difference they have made to communities across NSW."
