NSW SES Deputy Commissioner Daniel Austin with Tocumwal Local Peter Hueston.
A combined 345 years of service to the protection and support of the district community was celebrated by the State Emergency Service this month.
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The impressive dedication was achieved by members of the Tocumwal and Cobram SES units, who came together to celebrate in Cobram.
The evening recognised the hard work and commitment of volunteers who give their time to help their communities during storms, floods, and emergencies.
This night also paid tribute to the families, friends, employers, businesses, community groups and community members who continue to support our local SES volunteers.
A range of members were rewarded for long service milestones, with Peter Hueston among one longest serving with a 50 year service award presented on the night.
“It was a very good night,” Mr Hueston told the Southern Riverina News.
“It’s always good to volunteer, we need more people to do it.
“It’s a great way to be useful in the community, and you meet lots of people.”
Mr Hueston started volunteering with the NSW Rural Fire Service when he was a teenager, and not just with the SES.
He’s also an active member of both the NSW Rural Fire Service and Volunteer Rescue Association.
“I wouldn’t have done it for so long if I didn’t enjoy it,” Mr Hueston joked.
Making the awards evening even more memorable for volunteers was the attendance of Emergency Management Victoria Commissioner Tim Wiebusch ESM, NSW SES Deputy Commissioner Daniel Austin, Deputy Chief Officer Readiness & Response Ray Jasper ESM, VIC SES CEO Rob Purcell, Acting Senior Chief Officer East Region Chris Brockwell and Moira Shire administrator Dr Graeme Emonson PSM.
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