More than 60 NSW SES members were awarded the National Emergency Medal (NEM) in recognition of their service during the 2019-20 Black Summer bushfires.
NSW SES Commissioner Mike Wassing congratulated the recipients, acknowledging the extremely challenging conditions faced by volunteers across the Shoalhaven during the fires.
"As NSW SES volunteers, your response to fires within your own communities demonstrates the resilience, courage and compassion you bring to your roles. The 2019-20 Black Summer bushfires devastated parts of the Shoalhaven, but they also highlighted the strength of local communities and the dedication of volunteers, alongside our partners at the NSW Rural Fire Service," Commissioner Wassing said.
"I know recovery and rebuilding continue to this day, and I thank you for going above and beyond for your local community."
Over the past year, volunteers from the Nowra, St Georges Basin and Ulladulla Units responded to more than 1,370 incidents.
The awards night celebrated the service, teamwork and unwavering commitment to the Shoalhaven community. The evening also acknowledged the extraordinary service of long-serving volunteers who reflect the heart and resilience of the region.
NSW SES Ulladulla Unit member Tracy Provest received her 50-Year Long Service Award, marking an exceptional five decades of commitment to one of the smallest SES units in the state.
NSW SES St Georges Basin Unit member, Richard Findsen and Ulladulla Unit member, William Bill McInnes were both recognised for 30 years of service.
After moving to Australia from New Zealand, Richard began his NSW SES journey at the Bankstown Unit, later serving at the Hurstville and Nowra Units, before calling St Georges Basin home over the past two years. Richard is also a valued member of the NSW SES Operational Support Unit, where he assists with advanced operational technologies, including the Service's specialised Mobile Incident Command Centre.
"I used to be part of the New Zealand Civil Defence, so when I moved to Australia, I wanted to give back to the country I now call home. Joining the NSW SES has allowed me to support communities during tough times over the past 30 years," Mr Findsen said.
NSW SES South Eastern Zone Commander, Chief Superintendent Tom Jory, also praised the efforts of all award recipients.
"These volunteers are the best of their community. Award presentations like this one provide an important opportunity to pause, come together and recognise the achievements of our people. I am incredibly proud of all NSW SES members in the Shoalhaven.," Chief Superintendent Jory said.
