Volunteers from the Cooma-Monaro, Snowy River, Bombala and Alpine Search and Rescue Units collectively responded to more than 130 incidents over the past year, with alpine crews experiencing one of their busiest seasons on record. The Snowy Monaro Cluster Awards brought members together to recognise their service, teamwork and commitment to their communities.
Among those honoured were two volunteers whose contributions reflect the heart of the region.
Bombala volunteer Sam Raics received her 20 year Long Service Award, celebrating two decades with one of the smallest SES units in the state.
"It's the friendships and relationships that keep you here," Ms Raics said.
"We're a small unit, we all work together and the community helps out too."
One of her earliest memories was a land search shortly after joining. A job she says she'll never forget. This year's milestone was especially meaningful, with her son recently joining the unit.
"My son has special needs and I'm proud of him for giving it a go," she said.
"He feels comfortable in our small unit and he's slowly building confidence."
Snowy River Alpine Search and Rescue volunteer William Taylor received the National Emergency Medal for his work during the 2019-20 Black Summer bushfires.
With more than 27 years of SES service, Taylor served as Liaison Officer at the Queanbeyan Fire Control Centre, coordinating logistics and delivering critical information during the fires.
"A lot of it was last minute logistics - organising accommodation, getting action plans to places with no phone coverage," he said.
"It was behind the scenes work, but it mattered."
Taylor is now one of the SES's most experienced trainers, particularly in vertical rescue.
"Seeing volunteers gain confidence and take initiative, that's what keeps me going," he said.
NSW SES South Eastern Zone Commander Chief Superintendent Tom Jory said the past year had tested volunteers across the region.
"This cluster has faced one of its busiest and most diverse years," Chief Superintendent Jory said.
"From severe weather events to complex, resource-intensive operations, our volunteers have continued to step up for their communities, often in challenging and unpredictable conditions.
"Most recently, teams were on the ground in Berridale supporting the town during a short-notice flash flood event. They are always ready to respond and are a real credit to their community."
