New FRNSW Commissioner welcomed in Sydney
Published: 16th January 2017
Retiring Fire & Rescue NSW (FRNSW) Commissioner Greg Mullins has officially transferred command to new Commissioner Paul Baxter during a special ceremony at City of Sydney Fire Station today.
Symbolising the change in leadership, Commissioner Baxter was presented with the black Commissioner’s helmet and a special banner in FRNSW colours.
His Excellency General the Honourable David Hurley AC DSC, Governor of NSW, NSW Rural Fire Service Commissioner Shane Fitzsimmons, and NSW
SES Acting Commissioner Greg Newton, were among dignitaries present for the ceremony.
Minister for Emergency Services David Elliott said Commissioner Baxter, currently the National Commander and Chief Executive of the New Zealand Fire Service, will be the 22nd Chief Fire Officer and CEO of FRNSW.
"I would like to thank Commissioner Mullins for all his hard work and dedication to the role, for being a committed public servant, and for leaving such an outstanding legacy," Mr Elliott said.
"On behalf of the NSW Government, I congratulate and welcome Commissioner Baxter who is highly qualified in firefighting, rescue, disaster management and senior command. We look forward to his leadership of FRNSW and the continued protection of lives and property across this great state."
Commissioner Baxter said his appointment was a privilege and an honour and
he looked forward to building on the strong foundations established by Commissioner Mullins.
"FRNSW has made great progress not only with operational initiatives, but also with its workforce where it is leading the way to a more diverse, inclusive fire service that better reflects the communities that it serves," Commissioner Baxter said.
"For now I will be taking time to understand the Government's priorities, the needs of NSW communities, and the firefighters who serve them. I plan to spend a good amount of time listening and working with the people of this great organisation to understand their views on the issues and opportunities we have to take FRNSW from strength to strength."