2024 Finalists
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Robert Mason - Station Officer - NowraRobert Mason, a Station Officer with Fire & Rescue NSW in Shoalhaven, is an outstanding leader with over 26 years of dedicated service. His exceptional contributions to firefighting and community engagement have made a lasting impact.
Throughout his career, Rob has served at some of Sydney's busiest fire stations, gaining extensive experience and knowledge. He is an excellent mentor to his team, demonstrating the highest levels of professionalism in training, technical skills, and fitness. As an elite ultra-marathon runner, Rob has harnessed his passion for the sport to raise tens of thousands of dollars for the Westmead Children's Hospital Burns Unit since 2008. He has participated in numerous charity events, including the 400 in 4 Charity Ride, Coast to Kosci run, King of the Mountain Challenge, and Beat the Burn run, inspiring others to support this worthy cause. Rob's dedication extends beyond his primary role, as he has used much of his personal leave to promote and participate in these events. His commitment, selflessness, and positive impact on the community have earned him the love and respect of his colleagues and those he serves. |
Jen Sullivan - Wellbeing Officer - SydneyJen Sullivan, a Wellbeing Officer - Sydney with Fire & Rescue NSW, is an exceptional individual with 15 years of dedicated service. Her unwavering commitment to supporting the mental health and wellbeing of her colleagues has made a profound impact on the organization.
In her role, Jen works tirelessly within physically and psychologically demanding situations, demonstrating exceptional communication skills, collaboration, and resilience. She prioritizes and organizes daily responsibilities, thinks laterally, and makes on-the-spot decisions to support others through traumatic events and life challenges. Jen goes above and beyond her normal duties by regularly meeting with and supporting struggling individuals in her own time. She proactively engages and develops relationships with other Wellbeing Officers, Occupational Psychologists, Area Managers, and Zone Managers, resulting in improved communication and support for those in need. As a single mother of two girls, Jen's dedication to helping others extends beyond her professional life. She volunteers with WIRES, rescuing and rehoming wildlife, and assists at her daughters' school. Previously, she has volunteered as a Massage Therapist for Palliative Care Patients, a Run Partner for the blind, and a Carer for ACON. Jen's selfless service and positive impact on the mental health and wellbeing of her colleagues and community make her truly deserving of recognition. |
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Marine Rescue NSW |
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David Bigeni - Skipper & Maintenance Manager - Port MacquarieDavid Bigeni, a dedicated volunteer with Marine Rescue NSW for 22 years, currently serves as a Skipper, Trainer, and Maintenance Manager at the Port Macquarie unit. His exceptional contributions ensure the unit's operational readiness and safety.
With extensive experience, David maintains and operates four vessels, a vehicle, and all equipment. He trains future skippers on bar crossings, towing, emergency drills, and first aid. In 2021, he deployed to assist with flood rescues for 15 days and later helped rebuild homes. Passionate about giving back, David assists organizations like the Lions Club and supports community events such as the Iron Man and the Port Macquarie Rowing Club's 3 River Run. Known for his dedication, he often spends seven days a week at the unit to ensure the best outcomes. Throughout his career, David has completed hundreds of rescues and saved countless lives. His unwavering commitment to Marine Rescue NSW and his passion for serving the boating community show his commitment to service above self. |
Kelli Jovanovski - Training Systems Officer - Port JacksonKelli Jovanovski, the Training Systems Officer at Marine Rescue NSW's Port Jackson unit, demonstrates exceptional dedication and service above self. Balancing her demanding role, a full-time senior government position, and a household of young girls, Kelli consistently goes above and beyond for her community. With three years of service in Marine Rescue NSW, Kelli manages the training records and course bookings for over 120 members. She attends numerous meetings, travels extensively, and often works late into the night to ensure the accuracy and timeliness of the unit's training documentation. As a Registered Training Organization, Marine Rescue NSW relies on Kelli's diligence and attention to detail to maintain its high standards. Kelli's commitment extends beyond her primary role. She is passionate about helping others, having previously coached young swimmers and retired from playing senior netball. Her colleagues consistently praise her efficiency, effectiveness, and humble nature, making her a respected and integral part of the Port Jackson unit. Despite the challenges of her multiple responsibilities, Kelli remains organised, unflappable, and dedicated to serving her community. Her exceptional contributions and selfless service make her a truly deserving nominee for these Awards. |
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Sonia Teston - Deputy Unit Commander - MerimbulaSonia Teston, the Deputy Unit Commander of Marine Rescue NSW in Merimbula, has demonstrated exceptional leadership and dedication during her 9 years of service. Her outstanding contributions have significantly impacted the unit's growth and operational effectiveness.
Since joining in 2015, Sonia has quickly risen through the ranks, holding various positions such as Unit Commander, Roster Officer, Admin Officer, and Membership Officer. She has attained her MR Coxswain Rating and Radio Operator Rating, becoming a skilled and experienced leader in rescue operations. Sonia's leadership has been instrumental in doubling the unit's membership to 82 members, with a notable increase in female membership to 36%. As the first female Unit Commander and Deputy Unit Commander in Merimbula, she serves as a role model and mentor for aspiring female members. Beyond her primary role, Sonia has assisted in emergency operations during the 2019-2020 bushfires and the 2020 and 2022 floods. Her efforts were recognized with the Premier's Bushfire Citation and the National Emergency Medal. Sonia's passion, professionalism, and dedication to serving others have earned her the respect and admiration of her colleagues and the community.
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Nancy Weatherman - Deputy Unit Commander - EdenNancy Weatherman, the Deputy Unit Commander of Marine Rescue NSW in Eden, has demonstrated exceptional service and leadership in her 10 years with the organization. As a qualified MR Radio Operator, Nancy has provided vital communications support to the boating community and rescue agencies in the strategically important region of Twofold Bay and beyond.
Throughout her service, Nancy has taken on various roles, including Unit Commander and Deputy Unit Commander, where she has been instrumental in fundraising, community engagement, and member recruitment. Her efforts were particularly crucial during the transition of the Eden Unit from a Radio Base to managing its first rescue vessel in 2022. Nancy's dedication extends beyond her primary role, as she has been actively involved in the Eden Unit's Building & Facilities upgrade subcommittee and has consistently participated in local community events and initiatives. Her leadership and mentorship have been invaluable, particularly in supporting and encouraging the development of female members within Marine Rescue NSW. Known for her quiet yet effective leadership style, Nancy's commitment, passion, and selflessness have earned her the respect of her colleagues and the wider community. |
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Surf Lifesaving NSW |
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Nathan de Rooy - Director Life Saving - Lower North CoastNathan de Rooy, the Director of Lifesaving in the Lower North Coast Branch, has demonstrated unwavering dedication and exceptional service in his role at Surf Life Saving NSW. With over 20 years of experience in emergency services, Nathan has consistently gone above and beyond to support and lead volunteers during times of crisis.
Throughout his career, Nathan has held various positions, including Branch Duty Officer, Rescue Water Craft Operator, Trainer, Patrol Captain, and Forward Commander. He has also served as a SLSNSW Youth Advisory Panel and Lifesaving Standing Committee member. Nathan's extensive training and expertise have been instrumental in coordinating multi-agency responses and improving communication during emergencies. Nathan's outstanding contributions include his Intelligence and Planning Officer role during the 2019/20 bushfires, where he tirelessly gathered and analyzed data to support decision-making. He also served as a Team Leader and Liaison Officer during the Taree floods in 2021, coordinating communications between agencies. In 2022, Nathan acted as the Lower North Coast Branch Forward Commander during the floods, compiling intelligence for SLSNSW and ensuring emergency services had the necessary information to respond effectively.
Beyond his primary role, Nathan actively participates in local committees and collaborates with other emergency service agencies including the State Emergency Services. His selfless dedication, passion, and commitment to serving others have earned him the respect and admiration of his colleagues and the community. |
Simon Fillery - Director of Equipment & Facilities - Culburra BeachSimon Fillery, a dedicated volunteer at Nowra-Culburra Surf Life Saving Club since 2011, has demonstrated exceptional commitment to serving his community. As a qualified Bronze Medallion Surf Lifesaver and Patrol Captain, Simon leads a team of lifesavers, ensuring beach safety and maintaining rescue capabilities.
Going above and beyond his regular duties, Simon has delivered over 700 volunteer beach patrol hours across 14 seasons. As the Director of Equipment on the club's executive committee, he has skillfully manufactured, repaired, and maintained essential rescue equipment, saving the club thousands of dollars. Simon's dedication extends to the junior lifesaver training program, where he volunteers as an inflatable rescue boat driver and provides water safety coverage. His professionalism shone during a critical incident on Christmas Eve 2023, when he was first on the scene of a reported drowning and tirelessly performed CPR. A quiet achiever, Simon's competence, integrity, and constant efforts to improve the club make him an invaluable member of the Culburra Beach community. His selfless service and commitment to saving lives exemplify the true spirit of a dedicated lifesaver. |
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Mariah Jones - Beach Lifeguard/Supervisor - Tweed Shire
Mariah Jones, the first indigenous and female Lifeguard Supervisor in the Australian Lifeguard Service (ALS) NSW, has demonstrated exceptional dedication to her community for over 10 years. As a paid ALS employee and volunteer at Tweed Heads Coolangatta SLSC, Mariah has consistently gone above and beyond in ensuring beachgoer safety.
Mariah's responsibilities include patrolling beaches, conducting rescues, providing first aid, and educating the public. Her exceptional skills have been recognized through multiple Rescue of the Month nominations, with a recent win in February 2022. Beyond her primary role, Mariah created a women's group to support female lifeguards and participated in two ALS training tours in Vietnam, training over 200 lifeguards and teaching water safety to more than 250 children. As a volunteer since 2000, Mariah has dedicated countless hours to patrolling and serving in various club roles. Mariah's positive attitude, exceptional skills, and commitment to serving others have earned her the respect of her colleagues and the local community. Her contributions to the lifesaving movement demonstrate her unwavering dedication to saving lives and empowering others. |
Mollie Murphy - Director of Life Saving - Umina BeachMollie Murphy, the dedicated Director of Lifesaving at Umina SLSC, has demonstrated exceptional commitment and service to her community for over 13 years. As a volunteer lifesaver, Mollie has consistently gone above and beyond in her roles, profoundly impacting beach safety and youth development.
Since joining as a nipper, Mollie has taken on various leadership positions, including Patrol Captain for four seasons and Director of Lifesaving for three. Her extensive involvement spans operational duties, mentorship, and strategic initiatives. Mollie has logged an impressive 781 patrol hours, showcasing her hands-on approach to ensuring beach safety. Mollie's contributions extend beyond her primary roles. She has introduced innovative programs such as Patrol of the Year, Pink and Rainbow Patrols, and skin cancer checks, significantly increasing member engagement and promoting inclusivity. Her focus on youth development has ignited a passion for lifesaving among younger members, empowering them to become future leaders. During challenging incidents, such as a tragic shoreline fatality on Christmas Day, Mollie's resilient leadership shines through. Her adept handling of the situation and support for her team demonstrate her compassionate nature and commitment to member well-being. Mollie's proactive approach to learning from such incidents and engaging with local stakeholders exemplifies her dedication to continuous improvement. Through her positive demeanor and effective communication, Mollie has fostered a cohesive and supportive environment within the club. Her leadership and initiatives have reshaped the club's culture, aligning with SLSA's mission of creating great Australians and building better communities. |
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NSW Ambulance |
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David Bedford - Intensive Care Paramedic - Wagga Wagga
Daniel Bedford is an exceptional intensive care paramedic based in Wagga Wagga, NSW. With over 10 years of service with NSW Health, including his current role at NSW Ambulance, Daniel consistently demonstrates his commitment to providing high-quality care to his community.
As a registered nurse, Daniel previously worked at hospitals in Wagga and Sydney, gaining valuable experience that enhances his skills as a paramedic. He focuses on educating and supporting junior and trainee paramedics, ensuring the development of future healthcare professionals. Daniel's dedication extends beyond his daily duties. He volunteers his time to provide educational support to local life savers, schools, and the military community at Kapooka Army Base. These unpaid community events, organized by Daniel himself, showcase his genuine passion for serving others. Colleagues regard Daniel as an intelligent and quiet achiever who goes above and beyond for his patients without seeking praise. His commitment to continuous learning and sharing knowledge elevates the standard of care provided by his team. Through his exceptional service, both in his professional role and volunteer efforts, Daniel Bedford exemplifies the values of selflessness and dedication. His lasting positive impact on the Wagga Wagga community makes him a deserving candidate for these Awards. |
Elissa Lo Nigro - Acting Station Officer - Bankstown
Elissa Lo Nigro, Acting Station Officer at Bankstown Superstation, NSW Ambulance, is an exemplary leader and dedicated healthcare professional who consistently goes above and beyond in serving her community.
With six years of service in NSW Ambulance, Elissa has established herself as a clinical and management leader. She proactively organizes training and educational sessions, imparting invaluable knowledge to junior paramedics and nurturing the talents of aspiring Intensive Care Paramedics. Elissa's responsibilities include clinical governance, such as EMR, car checks, medication ordering, compliance, and professional development. Elissa's impact extends beyond her daily duties. She is an active member of the Bankstown Superstation Social and Tea Fund Committee, organizing social events, celebrations, and welcome packs for staff. Her commitment to the community is evident through her volunteer work with local Girl Scout meetings, where she inspires the next generation with her passion for healthcare and community service. Elissa's selflessness shines through her efforts in organizing Christmas donations for the Women's Shelter in Lakemba and Breast Cancer Australia. When Officer Tougher was killed in the line of duty, Elissa arranged support services, food drives, and donations for his family, demonstrating her unwavering dedication to supporting those in need. Elissa Lo Nigro's exceptional contributions, compassionate leadership, and tireless service highlight her commitment to service above self.
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Tess Oxley - Paramedic - Macarthur
Tess Oxley, a paramedic with NSW Ambulance in Campbelltown, has demonstrated exceptional dedication and leadership throughout her 13-year career. As a senior clinician, Tess provides expert medical care in complex environments while mentoring junior staff.
Tess's impact extends beyond her daily duties. She courageously testified during the Aged Care Royal Commission, advocating for the dignity and respect of aged care workers and residents. Tess has also fought for better pay, working conditions, and affordable housing for paramedics and other workers, recognizing that their well-being directly impacts the community they serve. Through her roles as Junior Vice President of the Health Services Union, Assistant Secretary of the South West Sydney Sub Branch, and President of the Australasian Council of Ambulance Unions, Tess has tirelessly advocated for her colleagues. Her efforts have led to improved study leave, professional pay, and paid family and domestic violence leave, enhancing staff retention and resilience. Tess's selfless dedication to her profession and community has earned her the respect and admiration of those around her. Her unwavering commitment to service above self makes her a true inspiration and a deserving recipient of the Rotary Emergency Services Community Awards. |
David Press - Clinical Volunteer (CERT) - Manildra
David Press, a Clinical Volunteer with the Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) at NSW Ambulance, has been a dedicated member for 14 years. As a key figure in the Manildra CERT, David provides critical care and support to his community. He actively participates in monthly CERT training and has completed peer support officer training, making him NSW Ambulance's sole peer support officer within the clinical volunteer workforce.
David's commitment to improving the CERT's capabilities is evident through his successful grant application to the Cabonne Shire Council, which funded the upgrade of the CERT building, enhancing training conditions. He also coordinates media opportunities to showcase the team's work, contributing to multiple newspaper articles. Beyond his role with NSW Ambulance, David is deeply involved in his local community. He freely offers medical and first aid advice to Manildra residents and attends local football matches while rostered to the CERT vehicle, ensuring prompt assistance for any injuries. In April 2024, David was elected President of the Manildra District Improvement Association, further demonstrating his dedication to serving his community. David's exceptional contributions, selflessness, and leadership have earned him the respect of his colleagues and the Manildra community. His unwavering commitment to supporting patients, families, friends, and colleagues demonstrate his dedication to service above self. |
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NSW Rural Fire Service |
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Michael Carey - Group Captain Southern Tablelands - Wee Jasper
Michael Carey, the dedicated Group Captain 3 of the Southern Tablelands Zone, has been an exceptional member of the NSW Rural Fire Service for an impressive 50 years. His quiet assurance and leadership have earned him the trust and confidence of his community, making him an invaluable asset to the Wee Jasper Volunteer Bush Fire Brigade.
Beyond his tireless efforts in the RFS, Michael has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to his small rural community. He has held office bearer roles in the Wee Jasper Community Association for 40 years, including 30 years as Vice President or President. His selfless contributions include personally donating money, materials, and labor to various community projects, such as the Wee Jasper Memorial Hall and the local school.
Michael's dedication extends to assisting farmers in need, whether it's helping with harvests or responding to emergencies. His role as a first responder and his willingness to go above and beyond to support others exemplify his belief in service for all.
With numerous accolades, including the National Medal and NSW RFS long service medals, Michael's humble and selfless approach to serving his community is truly inspiring, making him a deserving recipient of the RESCA award.
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Deanna Faulks - Risk Planning Co-Ordinator - Tamworth
Operational Officer Deanna Faulks, Risk Planning Coordinator at the North Western Area Command and dedicated volunteer with the Wingen Rural Fire Brigade, exemplifies exceptional service and leadership within the NSW Rural Fire Service. With nine years of commitment, Deanna has consistently gone above and beyond in her roles, making significant contributions to her community.
During the October 2023 Barton St, Scone fire, Deanna selflessly served as a tanker driver and Deputy Incident Controller, working tirelessly to assist with evacuation and communication efforts, even as her own family's homes were threatened. Her appointment as Operations Officer in the 2023 Coonamble Section 44 fires marked a significant milestone for the RFS.
Beyond her RFS duties, Deanna actively engages with her community, providing essential fire safety information and supporting youth soccer. She also raises funds for mental health advocacy and offers invaluable peer support to those affected by critical incidents.
Through her unwavering commitment, compassion, and leadership, Deanna Faulks embodies the spirit of service above self.
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Broni Jekyll - Community Engagement Officer - Murrumbateman
Firefighter Bronwyn Jekyll, a dedicated Community Engagement Officer with the Murrumbateman Rural Fire Brigade, has been an outstanding member of the
NSW Rural Fire Service for over two decades. Broni's commitment to community resilience and empowerment shines through her tireless efforts in prevention, preparedness, and engagement.
As a Rural Liaison Officer, Broni has made a significant impact by directly engaging with rural and agricultural communities affected by wildfires, ensuring their unique needs are considered and acted upon. Her expertise as a District Trainer has seen her deliver critical training courses across the state, specializing in Basic Firefighter, First Aid, and Community Engagement qualifications.
Broni's exceptional skills were recognized when she was invited as a Subject Matter Expert to review and re-write the Bush Firefighting course material for NSW. Her dedication to the next generation is evident through her coordination of the Yass High School Secondary School Cadets Program for the past 4 years.
Beyond her RFS duties, Broni has served as a Canberra Royal Show Society Councillor and Vice President of the Yass Show Society, showcasing her passion for supporting rural communities. Her selfless contributions have undoubtedly made a substantial difference to countless lives.
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Jennifer Lawther - Group Captain - Nowra
Jennifer Lawther, the dedicated Group Captain overseeing six rural fire brigades in the Shoalhaven Rural Fire District, has been an exceptional member of the NSW Rural Fire Service for 35 years. Her leadership and commitment to both administrative and operational duties have been invaluable to her community.
During major incidents, Jennifer has taken on critical roles such as Sector Leader, Divisional Commander, Incident Commander, and Strike Team Leader. She has participated in numerous significant operations, including the Sydney Hail Storm (1999), Canberra Bush Fire (2003), Victorian Black Saturday Fires (2009), Tathra and Bega Bushfires (2018), and the 2019/2020 Bushfires in northern NSW and the Shoalhaven.
Jennifer's selfless dedication extends beyond her RFS duties. In the early 2000s, she personally door-knocked throughout Callala Beach, recruiting new members to ensure the survival of her brigade. Her exemplary service earned her the Callala Citizens Award, with the local community praising her as an inspiration to all.
Jennifer's unwavering commitment, even under tremendous pressure, has earned her the utmost respect from her colleagues. Her service above self, both within the RFS and the community, makes her a truly deserving recipient of the RESCA award.
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NSW State Emergency Service |
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David Bere - Leading Senior Operator - Dapto
David Bere, a dedicated Leading Senior Operator with the NSW State Emergency Service, has demonstrated exceptional commitment to serving his community for over 30 years. As the Unit Commander of the Dapto SES for a decade until December 2023, Dave was instrumental in establishing the unit in 2014 and growing its membership from under 20 to nearly 80 members.
Throughout his service, Dave has contributed to numerous major incidents, often in challenging leadership roles. Notable deployments include the Thredbo Landslide in 1997, Wollongong's worst flooding in 1998, the Sydney Hailstorm in 1999, and various roles during the Newcastle Floods (2007), Sussex Inlet Floods (2010), Brisbane Floods (2011), Cyclone Yasi (2011), Griffith Floods (2012), Currowan Fire (2019/20), and East Coast Lows in the Illawarra. Dave's passion for land search and navigation has led him to mentor, train, and develop other members. He regularly runs land search courses, participates in rogaining events, and is a member of the statewide land search capability group. His efforts to engage with high-risk caravan parks in the Illawarra have resulted in strong working relationships and improved emergency plans. Dave's exceptional service was recognized with the Rotary "Pride of the Illawarra" award in 2011. His dedication to serving others and developing the skills of his fellow SES members makes him an outstanding nominee for the RESCA Award. |
Bill Frazer - Rescue Officer - Ulladulla
Bill Frazer, the dedicated Rescue Officer and Deputy of the NSW State Emergency Service in Ulladulla, has demonstrated exceptional leadership and commitment to serving his community for over 13.5 years. Through his tireless efforts, Bill ensures that vehicles, boats, and personnel are well-equipped to respond to disasters effectively.
With a background in Surf Life Saving and a passion for SCUBA, Bill's diverse experiences have shaped his ability to lead from the front in various challenging situations. He plays a vital role in delivering currency training to members, enabling them to better support their community.
Bill's service above self shines through his willingness to adjust his work schedule and volunteer until the early hours of the morning, often at personal cost. During the Currowan Fires, he contributed an impressive 67 days of active SES service, clearing roads and conducting door knocks and welfare checks. His leadership during flood rescues, both locally and interstate, has been invaluable.
Beyond his primary role, Bill actively participates in community initiatives such as the Year 11 Driver Education Program, where he emphasizes the importance of safe choices. His selfless dedication and outstanding contributions have earned him a Commissioner's Citation and a National Medal, show his commitment to service above self.
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Anthony Hatch - Deputy Unit Commander - Griffith
Anthony Hatch, Deputy Unit Commander - Operations at NSW SES Griffith Unit, has demonstrated exceptional service and leadership throughout his career. His outstanding contributions have significantly impacted the community and the emergency services sector.
With 35 years of experience in emergency services, Anthony has held various roles and gained extensive knowledge and skills. He is a Senior Group Officer and Trainer/Assessor, ensuring operational readiness and delivering multi-agency training. Anthony's key achievements include pioneering large animal rescue while working with Fire and Rescue NSW. His dedication earned him a Churchill Fellowship and honorary membership in the Australian Veterinary Association. He has responded to major incidents such as the Thredbo landslide and Fukushima tsunami and played a crucial role in developing the SES availability app. Beyond his primary roles, Anthony dedicates significant time to training SES volunteers and FRNSW personnel. His commitment to the community is evident through his tireless efforts and personal sacrifices. Anthony's exceptional service has been recognized with numerous awards, including the National Medal and NSW SES Commissioner's Commendation. His selflessness, passion, and leadership have earned him the respect of colleagues and the community. |
Benjamin Power - Land Search Operations Instructor - Ku-ring-gai
Benjamin Power, a dedicated Land Search Operations Instructor with the NSW State Emergency Service, has demonstrated unwavering commitment to serving his community for over 22 years. As an active member of the Ku-ring-gai SES Unit since 2002, Ben has held various roles, including Team Leader, Deputy Rescue Officer, Rescue Officer, Deputy Unit Commander, Emergency Officer, Acting Commander Operations, and Incident Management Controller.
With his extensive knowledge and experience, Ben has contributed to the successful outcome of thousands of SES jobs. He has provided invaluable training to hundreds of SES volunteers in disciplines such as Flood Operations, Storm Heights work, General Rescue, Vertical Rescue, Chainsaw Operations, and Incident Management. His mentorship has been instrumental in developing skilled trainers across all disciplines. Beyond his SES duties, Ben has demonstrated exceptional service to the community through his involvement with Scouts NSW for over 25 years, serving as an Assistant Scout Leader and supporting numerous scouting events. He has also contributed to organizations such as Life for Koori Kids Inc, Homeless Shelter ST FRANCIS HOUSE, OXFAM Australia, and Relay for Life. Ben's personal attributes, including his gravitas, superior listening skills, and self-effacing nature, have earned him unqualified respect and affection from all who know him. His dedication to serving others, both within and outside the SES, makes him an outstanding nominee for the RESCA Award. |
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VREA Rescue NSW |
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Malcolm Barry - Captain - Narooma
Malcolm Barry, the dedicated Captain of the Narooma VRA Rescue Squad, has demonstrated exceptional service and leadership in his 45 years with emergency services. As the head of the squad, Mal ensures the readiness of personnel, vehicles, and equipment while also mentoring new members and fostering teamwork.
During the recent bushfires, Malcolm’s outstanding contributions shone through as he established. And assisted running the evacuation centre, coordinating the safe evacuation of over 10,000 tourists. His tireless efforts and quick thinking helped protect countless lives during this crisis.
Beyond his role in VRA Rescue, Mal’s commitment to the community is evident through his involvement with various organizations such as Marine Rescue, Legacy, the local RSL, Rotary, and Lions Club. He generously donates his time and resources to support initiatives like running first aid courses, assisting Indigenous youth, and contributing to completing a legacy mural and RSL monument repairs.
Malcolm’s selflessness, passion, and dedication to serving others make him an invaluable asset to the Narooma community. His exceptional contributions and the lasting impact of his service above himself make him a deserving candidate for recognition through the RESCA awards.
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Paul Black - Captain TSPA - Thredbo
Paul Black, the dedicated Captain of the Thredbo Ski Patrol Association (TSPA), has demonstrated exceptional leadership and commitment to emergency services for over 25 years. In his current role, Paul oversees all aspects of the patrol, ensuring the safety of skiers and snowboarders while coordinating training, liaising with stakeholders, and managing resources.
Since becoming Captain in 2008, Paul has transformed TSPA into a modern, highly skilled volunteer organization. He has implemented rigorous training programs, raised skill requirements, and introduced innovative initiatives such as the single-parent patrol protocol and a focus on mental health support for patrollers.
Beyond his duties with TSPA, Paul’s service extends to the Australian Ski Patrol Association (ASPA), where he has been a committee member for 5 years and a trainer for 10 years. Additionally, he serves as the NSW VRA Captain of ski patrols in Region 6, working to integrate ski patrollers into broader emergency response training.
Paul’s unwavering dedication to the community is evident through his efforts to install public access defibrillators in Thredbo village and his genuine concern for the welfare of his fellow patrollers. His selfless service and commitment to excellence make him an invaluable asset to the ski patrol and the wider emergency services community.
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Ben Moyle - Captain - Albury
Ben Moyle, the dedicated Captain of the Albury VRA Squad, has demonstrated exceptional leadership and commitment to emergency services for over 11 years. Despite his demanding role as a Senior Constable with Victoria Police, Ben devotes most of his spare time to the VRA, going above and beyond to serve his community.
As a newly trained RPAS (Drone) Pilot, Ben is actively involved in developing this capability within the southern region of NSW and throughout the state. His innovative approach to squad management has led to easy reporting forms to track members progress and monitor their welfare.
Ben’s community involvement extends beyond his role in the VRA. He has assisted the Thurgoona Men’s Shed donation of materials and training. He has been a key contributor to youth initiatives such as the Ready2Serve program and the Girls on Fire program, which encourage young people to get involved in emergency services.
During the 2019-20 bushfires and the COVID-19 pandemic, Ben played a crucial role in assisting with the movement of personnel and supplies and distributing hampers to affected residents. His dedication to the community is further exemplified by his annual participation in the Royal Children's Hospital Good Friday Appeal, which helps raise over $100,000 each year for this worthy cause.
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Susan Pritchard - Squad Captain NSW Search Dogs - Illawarra
Susan Pritchard, the dedicated Squad Captain of VRA Rescue NSW Search Dogs, has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to emergency services for over 30 years. With a passion for improving search and rescue capabilities, Sue has been instrumental in establishing the VRA Rescue NSW Search Dogs team she currently leads.
Sue’s journey began with Austinmer Surf Life Saving Club in 1994, where she established their Junior Surf Lifesaving Club, served as a Patrol Captain and Chief Training Officer, training over 200 volunteers. Her dedication to community service also led her to volunteer with Habitat for Humanity in Thailand following the devastating 2004 Boxing Day tsunami.
During her 14 years with the NSW SES, Sue developed a keen interest in search and rescue. Awarded a Churchill Fellowship in 2015, she travelled internationally to research best practices in canine search methods, resources, protocols, and training. Sue has since applied these learnings to rewrite the canine component of the National Search and Rescue Manual and present at numerous national conferences and forums.
Since joining VRA Rescue NSW in 2020, Sue has tirelessly advocated for integrating search and rescue dogs into emergency services. Her efforts culminated in the VRA Rescue NSW Search Dogs team launch in 2022, which now provides invaluable resources to the NSW Police and Australian Federal Police.
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