Editor’s Note: Images available here: https://spaces.hightail.com/space/MWZDtgJB8e
Two dedicated members of the NSW State Emergency Service (SES), with decades of volunteer service, have been awarded an Emergency Services Medal (ESM) in this year’s Australia Day Honours List.
Port Macquarie Hasting Unit member, Leading Senior Operator Michael Ward and Metro Central Local Commander, Chief Inspector Kathy Garancsi, both received Emergency Service Medals for their steadfast commitment to volunteer service with the NSW SES over several decades.
Juliana (Kathy) Garancsi has devoted more than 45 years to the communities of NSW having commenced her service with the NSW SES in August 1980.
Kathy now serves as both the Zone Operational Readiness Officer for Metro Zone and the Local Commander of the Metro Central Cluster. Throughout her tenure as a volunteer, she has held key operational roles and supported the Service through several critical incidents and complex operations.
Michael Ward has been a cornerstone of emergency response and community resilience across the state since joining the NSW SES in 2002.
He first began his volunteer career at Ryde Unit before transferring to Port Macquarie Hastings in 2005 and has consistently demonstrated leadership, technical expertise, and a commitment to service that extends far beyond local operations.
NSW SES Commissioner Mike Wassing AFSM said they both represent the very best of the NSW SES.
“Michael and Kathy’s contributions are far reaching. Their commitment to the NSW SES and the communities of NSW over the past four decades showcase their resolve, compassion and incredible resilience,” Commissioner Wassing said.
“Their exceptional skills, leadership and passion for developing the skills of their fellow members epitomizes the kind of unsung heroes who are the fabric of the NSW SES and makes them both thoroughly deserving recipients of this award.”
Minister for Emergency Services Jihad Dib said they were both thoroughly deserving recipients of the honour.
“I express my utmost gratitude to both Michael and Kathy for their invaluable service and extend heartfelt congratulations on receiving the Emergency Services Medal. I know they don’t do the work for the recognition, but I am very pleased to see them honoured,” Minister Dib said.
“Through tireless efforts and a steadfast passion for helping others, Michael and Kathy’s actions in helping those affected by emergencies and natural disasters have been recognised.”
Ms Garancsi’s service spans many notable events, from the 1997 Thredbo Landslide, the 1999 Sydney Hailstorm, the 2019-2020 Bushfires, the widespread flooding events of 2021-2023 and Ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred in 2025.
“Knowing my efforts and the efforts of all volunteers directly contribute to the safety and well-being of others during emergencies and natural disasters serves as a powerful motivator,” Chief Inspector Garancsi said.
“Volunteering with the NSW SES has offered a unique opportunity to make a tangible difference in the community during times of need. I’ve been able to provide invaluable support to others, learn new capabilities, test myself and form lifelong friendships.”
“I often hear people say, ‘I couldn't do anything like that’ but I believe anyone can achieve almost anything if they are willing to put in the time and effort."
Ms Garancsi’s consistent leadership, sound decision‑making and operational capability under pressure have contributed to effective incident management across the state. Her commitment to community education, volunteer development and strong partnerships with local councils and emergency services continues to build resilience, trust and collaboration across the region.
Mr Ward has played critical roles in numerous major campaigns, including the Hastings River floods of 2011, 2013, 2021, and 2025, the Northern Rivers floods in 2022, and severe storm events in 2022 and 2023. His operational contributions also include deployments to the Hunter Storms (2007), Cyclone Yasi (2011), and the 2019–2020 bushfire emergency, where he coordinated evacuations and logistical support. During the Northern Rivers floods in 2022, his courageous actions as an in-water rescue operator earned him the Commissioner’s Commendation for Courage.
A defining moment in his career occurred on 25 April 2015, when, as Deputy Unit Commander, Mr Ward sustained a serious head injury during a tree removal operation. The impact caused him to stop breathing, but the swift actions of his fellow SES members saved his life. This incident underscores both the inherent risks of emergency service work and Mr Ward’s resilience and determination to continue serving his community despite such adversity.
“Volunteering with the NSW SES has given me new skills, lasting friendships and the immense satisfaction of giving back,” Leading Senior Operator Ward said.
“It has been a privilege to support the community in times of need and I am pleased I’ve been able to contribute by mentoring other members and helping units reach their full potential.”
“The recognition is not the reason that we volunteer, however, it is always greatly appreciated as it is generally unexpected. It makes it worthwhile when the call comes through at midnight, it is still raining and you see the relief on people’s faces when you arrive and are able to provide assistance”.
Beyond frontline operations, Mr Ward has made significant contributions to statewide capability development. He was instrumental in the rollout of Light Rescue Response Vehicles and standardisation of rescue equipment through the General Land Rescue Capability Development Group. His leadership in rescue competitions has brought multiple titles to NSW SES, in both Disaster Rescue Challenges and Road Rescue Challenges.
He remains deeply committed to community education, regularly leading Get Ready workshops, school visits, and road safety programs, and collaborating with Charles Sturt University paramedics to improve interagency practices.