THE dedication of the Rural Fire Service (RFS) could be seen as many crew members put the safety of others as their first priority while their own homes were at risk yesterday.
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One example of this remarkable attitude was that of RFS mitigation work crew member Matt Burgess.
While his own home in Tarcutta was under threat he chose to use his time to help other residents pack up their belongings and keep them informed.
Working at the Oura fire brigade station and delivering food and water to firefighters in the morning, Mr Burgess rushed to provide assistance in Tarcutta when news of a fire spread.
"I volunteered with the RFS when we moved to Tarcutta because I wanted to give back to the community," he said.
"That's when I decided I wanted to devote a career to it."
Mr Burgess, who is also a father and husband, studied a Bachelor of Emergency Management at Charles Sturt University and is also a volunteer with the SES.
Throughout the day at the Tarcutta RSL & Citizens Club, Mr Burgess provided updates to residents.
He also went to check on farming properties and make sure people were informed.
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