Tony O'Malley was among veteran volunteer firefighters recognised for their efforts this week during a presentation made by NSW Rural Fire Service (RFS) Commissioner Shane Fitzsimmons.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
or signup to continue reading
Commissioner Fitzsimmons presented 26 volunteers with long service medals during a ceremony at Orana Fire Control Centre.
Mr O'Malley joined the Euromedah brigade in June 1979 and in 1980 was appointed as the first ever fire control officer for Narromine, a position he held for 23 years.
All up, he has completed 35 years' service, earning him a Long Service Medal with 3rd Clasp.
Mr O'Malley's citation described him as “a well-liked and respected fire control officer, member of the community and his brigade.”
He was also described as “a hands-on fire control officer who had very good operational knowledge.”
Mr O'Malley retired from the fire control officer position in 2003 but remained an active member of the brigade, attending meetings and functions.
Between them, the 26 medal recipients had notched up 659 years of service. Fourteen of them had been members for more than 20 years.
During the awards ceremony, Commissioner Fitzsimmons also made special mention of Raymond (Mick) O'Brien, who was awarded a Long Service Medal and 5th Clasp to recognise 64 years of service.
"Raymond joined the Wongarbon brigade in January 1950 and, to this day, still responds to incidents with that brigade as a tanker driver," he said.
"Like Raymond, all the volunteers here today have demonstrated an exceptional level of commitment to their community over the years and these medals are a proud acknowledgement of their efforts."
Commissioner Fitzsimmons also congratulated 16 students from Dubbo College Delroy Campus on their successful completion of the NSW RFS Secondary Schools Cadet Program.
The program teaches students practical skills, including how to use a firefighting hose, as well as ideals such as commitment, leadership, teamwork and camaraderie.
