Released 25/07/2017
The outstanding efforts of 38 ACT State Emergency Service (ACTSES) volunteers and staff were formally recognised tonight at the 2016 ACTSES Honours and Awards ceremony.
The ACTSES personnel recognised were presented with a range of awards by Minister for Police and Emergency Services Mick Gentleman.
“This ceremony is about recognising the contributions and efforts to support and protect our community by SES volunteers and staff,” Mr Gentleman said.
“Since 1 July, the ACTSES has responded to almost 900 requests for assistance to storm or flood damage.
“These remarkable people are out there, day and night, in storms and floods, during high winds and torrential rain, helping Canberrans to stay safe in often tough and dangerous situations.
“SES volunteers also assisted with another successful missing person search in support of the AFP last week and we thank them for their efforts.”
Among the volunteers recognised tonight were a number who have spent many years volunteering with the ACTSES eligible for long service awards, with a combined 165 years of service acknowledged.
“This year, 15 volunteers were acknowledged for five years of service and another two received medals for having spent 10 years with the ACTSES,” Mr Gentleman said.
“Medals were issued to one volunteer for 30 years of service and one for volunteering over a remarkable 40 year period.”
Two local employers – the Australian National University College of Medicine and the Australian Transport Safety Bureau – were presented with certificates of appreciation, recognising the support they have provided to the ACTSES volunteers they employ.
“It’s important to remember that many of our volunteers also hold down full-time jobs and, without the support of their employers, they simply couldn’t do the incredible work they continue to do,” Mr Gentleman said.
“Volunteering for the ACTSES is a highly rewarding endeavour, but these particular volunteers, staff and employers have gone above and beyond and this is our way of saying thank you to them for their outstanding contributions to our community.”
- Statement ends -
Mick Gentleman, MLA | Media Releases