Awards for southern firefighters
Fire and Emergency NZ firefighters were recognised at a gala event in Invercargill last night for the southern district.
Fire and Emergency New Zealand relies on 260 specialist rural fire fighters spread across Southland to respond day or night when emergencies occur.
Fire and Emergency’s principal rural fire officer Elton Smith said it was the firefighters that made the organisation successful.
‘‘. . .we want to acknowledge the great work they and their families do all year round.’’
‘‘When rural fire fighters get called to fires, it not only impacts on their business or work but also their families and their employers.
‘‘It’s important we also acknowledged the families and employers behind the fire fighters who make it possible in small rural communities.’’
More than 140 people were expected to attend the awards at the Invercargill Workingmens Club.
The awards celebrated the achievements of individuals, with scholarships for exceptional leadership and team awards and best kept fire stations.
Results:
Fire Station Award: Category 1, Garston Volunteer Rural Fire Force, highest level of operational readiness and cleanliness.
Fire Station Award: Category 2, Department of Conservation Stewart Island Rural Fire Force, highest level of operational readiness and cleanliness.
Medical Co Responder Award: Waikawa/Curio Bay Volunteer Rural Fire Force.
Fire and Emergency Southern Good Sort Award: Brett Hamilton from Open Country Dairy for services provided to Fire and Emergency during the Southwood Export Chip Mill fire January 31. The award is for outstanding community service by a non-fire and emergency person.
Rural Firefighter of the Year: Shane Rhodes, from Hedgehope Volunteer Rural Fire Force.
Leadership Award: Gordon Baker, from Garston Volunteer Rural Fire Force.
New Zealand Fire Brigades Long Service Good Conduct Medal: David Coveney
25-Year
Peterson. Gold Star Medal: Sue