Mid Lachlan Valley Firefighters awarded for bravery, dedication and support
Published Date: 04 May 2014
Summary
The NSW Rural Fire Service (NSW RFS) has honoured twenty individuals and three teams for their outstanding achievements and dedication today on St Florian's day (the Patron Saint of Firefighters).
NSW RFS Commissioner Shane Fitzsimmons took the opportunity to thank all serving NSW RFS members who continue to follow in the tradition of St Florian.
"Today we not only pay tribute to St Florian, but we also reflect on the selfless dedication and bravery our men and women show every day, upholding the same commitment to protecting lives and property," Commissioner Fitzsimmons said.
"The people of NSW should be rightly proud of the efforts of their NSW RFS members, who respond day after day to a variety of emergencies, both here in NSW and interstate."
During the awards ceremony Commissioner Fitzsimmons paid tribute to the NSW RFS members and teams who had gone above and beyond the call of duty.
He made particular mention of Senior Deputy Captain James Burge, who showed bravery by attempting to rescue the occupant of a burning home before other emergency services had arrived, putting his own life at risk.
"Many of the members being recognised today will tell you that it's all in a day's work but nonetheless, they're deserving of the community's recognition and gratitude," he said.
Commissioner Fitzsimmons said a number of members will also receive awards for important behind-the-scenes work.
"The NSW RFS is a team of hard working, professional and dedicated men and women, volunteer and salaried alike, fulfilling a variety of roles from frontline firefighters to operational and logistical support.
"It is particularly pleasing to see some of our members awarded who work in vital support roles such as communications, administration and training other volunteers.
"Their role is critical and today on St Florian's Day, we recognise the efforts of all of our members – and also give thanks to their families, friends and employers whose contribution is just as important."
Firefighter Gordon (Gordie) William Gam - Emu Creek Rural Fire Brigade, Mid Lachlan Valley Team, Region West
Firefighter Gordon (Gordie) Gam is a member of both Weddin Headquarters and Emu Creek Rural Fire Brigades in the Weddin area of the Mid Lachlan Valley Team.
Both Gordie and his father Walter (Wally), go well beyond what is expected of volunteers by not only ensuring their own Brigade's response capability is always ready to go but they also provide valuable assistance to our team by liaising with Weddin Shire Council and our staff to organise the pickup and delivery of tankers for servicing or mechanical breakdowns.
Gordie and Wally are community minded people who have been doing this service for many years and the Weddin Senior Management Team would like to acknowledge their effort.
Firefighter Walter (Wally) Gordon Gam - Emu Creek Rural Fire Brigade, Mid Lachlan Valley Team, Region West
Firefighter Walter (Wally) Gam is a member of the Emu Creek Rural Fire Brigade in the Weddin area of the Mid Lachlan Valley Team and has been for nearly 30 years. Wally, who is 83 years old, is still a very active member and with his son Gordon (Gordie) liaise with our staff and Weddin Shire Council to arrange the pickup and delivery of tankers for annual servicing or mechanical breakdowns and have done so for many years. Both go beyond what is expected of volunteers. They ensure their Brigade is ready to respond at a moment's notice and are prepared to be on standby on bad fire weather days.
The Senior Management Team would like to acknowledge their efforts for their outstanding contribution to the NSW Rural Fire Service.
