Grafton Fire and Rescue 306 Station Captain Garry Reardon has been awarded the Australian Fire Service Medal (AFSM) in the 2025 Australia Day Honours.
Established in 1988, the AFSM is one of the highest honours an Australian firefighter can receive, and the medal is awarded to firefighters who have demonstrated exceptional service, initiative, and performance throughout their careers.
Captain Reardon initially joined FRNSW (Fire and Rescue NSW) in Grafton in 1983 and undertook the role of a volunteer firefighter for eight years.
After resigning in 1991 due to family and education commitments he rejoined in 1998 and has faithfully served FRNSW and his local community ever since.
Appointed Captain in 2009, he has supported, deployed, and led his crew during many natural disasters which have impacted Clarence Valley communities including major flooding which occurred in 2009, 2011, and 2013, and the devastating bushfires which unleashed havoc across the region during summer in 2019/2020.
During his career, Captain Reardon has been awarded the National Medal (1st Clasp), Unit Commendation for Meritorious Service (Bushfire Emergency – Rappville), NSW Premier’s Bushfire Emergency Citation, and the FRNSW Long Service and Good Conduct Medal (2nd Clasp).
Outside of his firefighting duties, Captain Reardon has trained and mentored cyclists at the Grafton Cycle Club since 1985, volunteered at Woolgoolga Surf Club, played and umpired cricket at local and district levels, and coached women’s hockey in the Clarence Valley.
Speaking with the Clarence Valley Independent last week, Captain Reardon revealed he was overwhelmed to receive the award and said it is a privilege to be associated with FRNSW.
“It is both humbling and a great honour, and nice to be acknowledged by my peers,” he said.
“Firefighters, including myself, don’t do what we do for the accolades, we just want to protect our community as best we can.
“You’re only as good as the people around you, and I’m surrounded by the best.
“I’d also like to acknowledge my wife and family for always being so supportive of my role in FRNSW and other volunteer activities.”
After being a firefighter for more than 30 years, Captain Reardon said he still experiences a spine-tingling sensation when he knows he has been able to help someone within his local community.
FRNSW Commissioner Jeremy Fewtrell also extended his congratulations to Captain Reardon.
“Captain Reardon is to be applauded for his commitment and dedication to FRNSW and the Clarence Valley community,” he said.
“He has provided selfless service for more than three decades and is a worthy recipient of this prestigious medal.”