Advertisement

Local firefighters awarded National Emergency Medals

October 16, 2024 6:35 am in by

More than 90 local volunteer firefighters and six CFA staff members have been honoured with National Emergency Medals for their efforts in the 2019-2020 Australian bushfire crisis.

The National Emergency Medal (NEM) is part of Australia’s Honours and Awards system and recognises significant or sustained service to others in a nationally significant Australian emergency.

At ceremonies on Friday, 11 and Sunday 13 October, firefighters from across Buloke, Mildura, Swan Hill and Yarriambiack became the latest of more than 5,500 CFA members to receive the honour for the 2019-2020 fires.

Article continues after this ad
Advertisement

CFA Board Member Beth Davidson presented the medals and said they were an important recognition of the valiant efforts of CFA members.

“The National Emergency Medal is a formal recognition that Australia appreciates the efforts and contributions of CFA members during the 2019-2020 bushfire crisis,” she said.

CFA Chief Officer Jason Heffernan spoke of his pride for the CFA members’ efforts.

“The 2019/2020 fires devastated East Gippsland and the North East of Victoria,” he said.

“But from that crisis arose the most remarkable human spirit of generosity and ‘lending a hand’.

Article continues after this ad
Advertisement

“Our medal recipients have exemplified that spirit, and I am incredibly proud of each and every one of them.

Advertisement