At the Riverina Zone event, NSW RFS Assistant Commissioner Stuart Midgley presented long service medals to 54 volunteers and officially opened the new station at Harefield.

Assistant Commissioner Midgley said the 54 medal recipients have accumulated 2269 years of service between them.

“I’d particularly like to congratulate the six members who have given 60 or more years’ service each, including Brendan Macauley from the Junee Reefs Brigade who was recognised for more than 72 years commitment,” Assistant Commissioner Midgley said.

“Leslie Eisenhauer must also be commended for his 71 years dedication to the Marinna Brigade, especially as he is the brigade’s longest serving member.

The new station encompasses two tanker bays, training rooms, a kitchen, storerooms and a workshop.

“I know the Brigade and its members will continue to serve their local community for many years to come and share their knowledge, experience and firefighting skills both locally and further afield,” Assistant Commissioner Midgley said

“This new facility is the first dedicated fire station for the Harefield Rural Fire Brigade.”

Meanwhile at the Bland Temora Zone, seven long-service medals were presented to members.

Chief Superintendent Parnaby said the seven medal recipients have accumulated 316 years of service between them.

“I’d particularly like to congratulate the seven members who have given 40 or more years’ service each, including Barry Wiencke from the Narraburra Brigade who was recognised for more than 60 years commitment,” Chief Superintendent Parnaby said.

“John Morton must also be commended for his 43 years dedication to the Narraburra Brigade, especially as he held the role of Treasurer for an astounding 38 years.”

The official opening of Narraburra station was also held in conjunction with the medals presentation.

State Member for Cootamundra Steph Cooke MP also attended.

In Tarcutta in July, three national medals and two long-service Medals were presented to Riverina Zone members.

Assistant Commissioner Heffernan said the five medal recipients have accumulated a total of 147 years of service between them.

“I’d particularly like to congratulate James Simpson who has given 68 years’ service, joining the Lake Albert brigade in 1953 as an eight-year-old attending fires with his father,” Assistant Commissioner Heffernan said.

The official opening of the new Tarcutta Station on Sydney Street was also celebrated.

It is worth $260,000 and provides enhanced support to the volunteers and communities they protect.