NSW State Emergency Service (NSW SES) volunteers from the Central Coast received awards for their steadfast dedication and ongoing service to their communities on Monday evening, February 24.
A ceremony at The Entrance Leagues Club recognised the commitment of 19 recipients, with more than 240 years of combined service to their communities over many decades.
NSW SES Commissioner Mike Wassing, who presented the awards at the ceremony, said the recipients were thoroughly deserving of the recognition.
“These awards celebrate the collective strength and resilience of our members,” he said.
“Each award recognises countless hours of hard work and commitment to safeguarding the local community.
“The dedication and bravery of these members is nothing short of extraordinary.
“Their tireless efforts in times of crisis reflect the highest standards of community service.”
Gosford Unit member Peter Forbes was recognised with the 35-year Long Service Award for his selfless commitment to the local community and also received the National Medal.
He has undertaken many varying roles throughout his tenure, including map navigation, mentoring and several out-of-area support positions.
He currently serves as a radio operator and is actively involved in the Incident Management Team during operational periods, making invaluable contributions to the Unit and local communities.
Members from Gosford and Wyong units also received a Commissioner’s Commendation for Service and Commissioners Unit Citations, for their outstanding dedication, commitment and professionalism in providing assistance to affected communities during the Northern Rivers flood event in February and March 2022.
“Our award recipients have given their lives to serve with their communities, and I commend them for their service,” Wassing said.
National Medal recipients were: Peter Forbes, Sean Hooper, Peter Hull, Ian Johnson, Susan Kauter, Brian Mann, Phill Murphy, Janette Taylor, Graeme Thornton and Stephen Tobin.
The NSW SES Commissioner’s Commendation for Service went to Neil Rechlin and Phillip Whitmore.
The NSW SES Commissioner’s Unit Citation for exceptional commitment to the community went to Gavin Bale, Jon Giffney, Sam Giunta, Phillip Whitmore, Neil Rechlin and Leon Brooks.
Peter Forbes received a 35-year Long Service Award and Phillip Whitmore was given a 20-year Long Service Award.
Receiving their 15-year Long Service Award were Peter Hull, Ian Johnson, Susan Kauter, Brian Mann, Phill Murphy, Janette Taylor, Graeme Thornton, Stephen Tobin and Sharyn Findlay.
Recipients of the 10-year Long Service Award were David Beman and Saxon Air.
