The NSW Rural Fire Service (RFS) shone the spotlight on the volunteers from the Tamworth district at a special service to recognise their ongoing commitment to the local community.

Twenty volunteers from were presented with long service medals by NSW RFS Senior Assistant Commissioner Bruce McDonald AFSM.

It was no easy feat to clock up almost 500 years of collective service, and Senior Assistant Commissioner McDonald was the first to congratulate them on their “impressive” efforts.

“This is testament to the ongoing commitment shown by Tamworth District volunteers to both the NSW RFS and the local community,” Senior Assistant Commissioner McDonald said.

“One volunteer, Rex Whitten, was honoured for giving 52 years of dedicated service to his brigade and the local community.

“Receiving the Long Service Medal and 1st, 2nd, 3rd and 4th Clasp, Henry has been a dedicated member of the Gowrie Brigade and is respected for his valuable local knowledge and leadership skills.

“I’d also like to give particular mention to Kevin Tongue for 49 years of service and Ian Pittman for 41 years with the Loomberah Brigade.

“The hard work and professionalism of all Tamworth District volunteers does not go unnoticed and this is a great opportunity for the broader community to express their gratitude and say thank you.

“The recipients, as do all NSW RFS volunteers, dedicate themselves to providing a vital service to the community and these medals are our proud acknowledgement of their efforts.

“It is an absolute honor to present these awards and to take a moment in which we can reflect upon the outstanding achievements of these members.”

And the celebrations might not last too long with volunteers bracing for a busy summer. The Tamworth zone is in the bushfire danger period and has already seen call outs.