Minister for Emergency Services David Elliott today thanked the more than 80,000 volunteers who provide emergency services across NSW, at the start of National Volunteer Week.
Volunteers from the NSW Rural Fire Service, State Emergency Service, Marine Rescue and Volunteer Rescue Association provide a critical role in communities every day.
“Every day you will find emergency services working together to keep our communities safe – whether it’s at fires, floods, storms or motor vehicle accidents. And in many cases, those emergency service personnel are volunteers who are giving up their time,” Mr Elliott said.
“These volunteers don’t do it for praise or accolades, but simply for their local community. Every day, but especially during this National
Volunteer Week, we should be incredibly proud of the role of volunteers play, and recognise their invaluable contribution.”
Mr Elliott has also encouraged more people to get involved in volunteering, especially in emergency services.
“We are well served by the tens of thousands of volunteers who contribute to our emergency services. However there is always opportunity for more to join, whether it be the RFS, SES, Marine Rescue or VRA.
“There are a range of roles available in all of the services, whether it’s on the frontline or those important behind the scenes roles ranging from communications and logistics to catering and support. Every single one of these roles is important and valued, and we recognise the contribution of all this National Volunteer Week.”
National Volunteer Week will include the announcement of the Cadet of the Year for both the NSW Rural Fire Service and State Emergency Service.
Wednesday 11 May also marks ‘Wear Orange Wednesday’, a day of support for State Emergency Service volunteers.
