AFTER the devastating March 2012 floods that ravaged homes in North Wagga and the Murrumbidgee region most people learnt the name James McTavish.
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As Murrumbidgee region controller for the State Emergency Service (SES) he co-ordinated efforts to protect people and homes while also taking on the job of answering the questions of displaced residents at public meetings.
And while “I heart James McTavish” bumper stickers illustrated the high regard Riverina residents have for him, today he is awarded with an Emergency Service Medal for his tireless work in NSW SES incident management.
Mr McTavish said he was grateful for an award, which he believes he shares with the entire SES team.
“I’m humbled,” he said.
“But I am a small part of a great organisation and a generous community, which comes together when we face problems.”
Mr McTavish joined the SES in 2009 – having served in the Australian Army and decorated with a Conspicuous Service Cross medal – and his immediate talents in the areas of leadership and operational management were apparent.
Mr McTavish said while he worked to ensure the least amount of damage was done by natural disasters, he had to thank his own family, wife Therese and his three sons, for their contribution.
“I have a wonderful, supportive family that keep the home fires burning while I’m away,” he said. “This award is as much about them as it is me.”
