Three Fire and Rescue NSW firefighters receive Australia Day honours
Published: 26th January 2021
Three Fire and Rescue NSW (FRNSW) firefighters have been awarded an Australian Fire Service Medal (ASFM) in today’s Australia Day Honours List.
Fire and Rescue NSW Commissioner Paul Baxter said the AFSM was the highest honour an Australian firefighter could receive.
“This award recognises the outstanding contribution these firefighters have made not only to the NSW community but also to FRNSW throughout their careers,” he said.
“The community holds the efforts of emergency service workers in extremely high regard and these medals are evidence of the respect the community has for them.
“I would like to offer my congratulations to Deputy Commissioner Jeremy Fewtrell, Superintendent Norman Buckley and Captain John Dun on receiving the medal.”
Minister for Police and Emergency Services David Elliott also congratulated the three FRNSW personnel who have been honoured for their service.
“Over the past year we have seen exceptional heroism from our Police and Emergency Services who were on the frontline during the COVID-19 pandemic and the catastrophic bush fires,” he said.
“This is an opportunity to recognise those who have put their lives on the line to protect the community – and this honour is a reflection of our gratitude and thanks for their professionalism and selflessness.
“These three FRNSW recipients exemplify the resilience and mateship that are integral to our community. On behalf of the people of NSW, I’d like to thank our emergency services personnel and volunteers for their ongoing service, and reinforce the Government’s commitment to providing our frontline agencies with the resources they need to keep our communities safe.”
Commissioner Baxter said the wonderful work of these recipients reflects FRNSW’s overriding purpose.
“We are committed to enhancing community safety, quality of life, and confidence by minimising the impact of hazards and emergency incidents on the people, property, environment and the economy of NSW,” he said.
“As one of the world’s largest and busiest urban fire and rescue services in Australia, we are humbled by the prestigious recognition of our people.
“On behalf of FRNSW, I commend this year’s award recipients, together with all those who have been honoured, on their outstanding achievements.”