The past few weeks have once again shown the dedication, courage and commitment of State Emergency Services volunteers.
On May 31 the volunteers made time to be part of the Hunter Award Presentation where a number were recognised for the commitment to the organisation and their communities.
Member for Maitland Jenny Aitchison was accompanied by SES Deputy Commissioner Damien Johnston and North Zone Commissioner Andrew Cribb at a ceremony in Maitland to present the awards.
“It’s always great to show support and appreciation for the work our SES do in keeping our community safe. Congratulations to all the award winners,” said Jenny.
Six members from the Singleton Unit were presented the Commissioner’s Commendation of Courage for their brave and selfless efforts during the Lismore 2022 Flood response in a time volunteers say pushed teams to their limits and truly demonstrated the best of the organisation.
In addition, the Singleton Unit received a Unit Citation, recognising the outstanding teamwork and dedication shown by all involved during this large-scale deployment.
Award Recipients
Marg Ashlin – Commissioner’s Commendation of Courage and Unit Citation.
Michael Bright – Commissioner’s Commendation of Courage and Unit Citation.
Richard Fellowes – National Service Medal Clasp 2 for 35 years’ service and the NSW SES Long Service Award for 35 years’ service.
Trevor Fellowes – National Service Medal Clasp 2 for 35 years’ service and the NSW SES Long Service Award for 35 years’ service and Scone Unit Richard Davidson.
Jacob Fox – Commissioner’s Commendation of Courage and Unit Citation.
Theo Godschalk – Commissioner’s Commendation of Courage and Unit Citation.
John King – National Service Medal for 15 years.
Simon Merrick – Commissioner’s Commendation of Courage, National Service Medal Clasp 1 for 25 years’ service, NSW SES Long Service Award for 25 years’ service, Unit Citation.
Tim Merrick – Commissioner’s Commendation of Courage, National Service Medal for 15 years’ service and Unit Citation.
Three Cessnock members were presented with Long Service Awards. Deputy Unit Commander John Ward for 15 years’ service and National Medal, Brie Ward for 10 years’ service and Lindsay Bawden for 10 years’ service.
First and second clasp for 25 years’ service to Richard and Bradley Apps from the Scone Unit.
These awards are not just symbols of individual milestones. They represent countless hours, sleepless nights, missed family moments, and an unwavering commitment to helping others during their most difficult times.
The members were thanked for their dedication and a heartfelt appreciation was extended to their families and employers, who support and enable them to give so generously to the community.
Award ceremonies like this are a powerful reminder of the incredible work SES volunteers do every year. Congratulations to all recipients — your community is so proud of you.
