Members of the NSW Rural Fire Service (RFS) Clarence Valley District have been awarded the National Emergency Medal for their efforts during the 2019-20 fire season.

Clarence Nationals MP Chris Gulaptis and RFS Area Commander, Chief Superintendent Jayson McKellar, presented the National Emergency Medal to 116 volunteers at a special ceremony held at the Grafton Racecourse.

Mr Gulaptis said the National Emergency Medal is awarded to people who provide sustained or significant service during nationally significant emergencies in Australia.

“Hundreds of our volunteer firies in the Clarence Valley District played an integral part in the firefighting response during the 2019-20 Black Summer bush fire season,” Mr Gulaptis said.

“Along with protecting local communities, many personnel were also dispatched to assist with the firefighting efforts right across our State.”

Chief Superintendent McKellar praised the medal recipients for their courage.

“Today we recognise Brigade members from across the region and thank them for their incredible contribution over many years and in particular the 2019-20 season,” Chief Superintendent McKellar said.

“Every single one of these members should be proud of themselves and their dedication to protecting communities across the State.

“They performed admirably during an incredibly difficult fire season and went above and beyond when deployed to other regions to help local Brigades battle devastating blazes.

“I would like to take this time to praise all our volunteers for their ongoing efforts each and every day, particularly when dealing with emergencies here in the Clarence Valley District.

“We also thank the family, friends, employers and colleagues of all RFS volunteers. We know it takes their ongoing support and patience to assist and enable our volunteers to do what they do to save lives and property.”