- 228 emergency services personnel acknowledged for contribution to the community
- Medals awarded for service milestones ranging from 10 - 35 years
The Cook Government has commended emergency services' personnel, who were honoured at an annual medal ceremony for their many years of service to protecting the safety of Western Australians.
Emergency Services Minister Stephen Dawson said the recipients included both frontline and behind the scenes people from the Department of Fire and Emergency Services, who had collectively served more than 4,000 years in helping to safeguard WA communities.
Medals were yesterday presented to both active and retired emergency services workers for their long-standing commitment to protecting lives and property.
The National Medal, awarded by the Federal Government, recognises individuals who accumulate 15 years of service in roles where they risk their own safety to protect life and property.
The Emergency Services Diligent Service Medal is awarded by the Western Australian Government to emergency services personnel after 10 years diligent service.
Clasps for both medals are also issued to recognise further service milestones beyond the initial 10 and 15-year periods.
The longest-serving staff recognised at this year's ceremony were Superintendent Aviation Services Terry Shehan, Manager Air Operations Adam Bannister, and Station Officer Paul Smoker - who each celebrated 35 years.
Fire and Emergency Services Commissioner Darren Klemm AFSM was also recognised for 30 years of service.
The awards go beyond firefighters on the frontline - they also include staff diligently working behind the scenes in areas such as administration, event coordination, finance, and volunteer management support.
As stated by Emergency Services Minister Stephen Dawson:
"On behalf of the Cook Government and the Western Australian community, I would like to thank all of the recipients for their long-standing commitment to emergency services.
"These medals represent the dedication, sacrifice and loyalty of staff and personnel who risk their own safety to protect their community.
"Whether on the front line or behind the scenes, each recipient has played a role in helping the State prepare for, respond to, and recover from emergencies."
