Minister Gallacher led tributes to volunteers from the NSW Rural Fire Service, State Emergency Service, Volunteer Rescue Association and Marine rescue NSW –who have lost their lives while serving the community.

“The names of 86 volunteers from our emergency services are inscribed on the Memorial’s commemorative Roll of Honour,” Minister Gallacher said.

“The state’s emergency volunteers often put their own personal safety at risk to assist and protect others, and for this we are forever grateful.

“By its very nature, much of their work is inherently dangerous and conducted in the most inclement weather and stressful conditions,” Minister Gallacher said.

“The emergency services have a steadfast commitment to the safety of their members but this Memorial is a reminder that the price of ensuring the community is protected in times of emergency.

“Today we have the opportunity to thank our volunteers for their unflagging commitment and hard work on behalf of us all and to remember those we have lost,” Minister Gallacher concluded.

The Volunteers Memorial was unveiled by the NSW Governor, Her Excellency, Professor Marie Bashir AC in June 2001, to acknowledge the contribution of the State’s emergency services volunteers, particularly those who have lost their lives serving the community.

ENDS

MEDIA: John Macgowan 0420 384 925