At a presentation conducted at Young last week, Boorowa man Greg Mason received the National Medal in recognition of his long and meritorious service as a member of the NSW Rural Fire Service.
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In a ceremony at Mercy Care Centre, where Greg is currently a patient, he also received a Long Service Medal 3rd Clasp for 40 years service to the Kenyu-Goba Creek Rural Fire Brigade.
State Member for Cootamundra Steph Cooke was on hand to invest Greg with the medals, while many colleagues from district brigades were present, along with District HQ officials.
The National Medal recognises long and diligent service by members of recognised government and voluntary organisations who risk their lives and safety to protect or assist the community in enforcement of the law or in times of emergency or natural disaster.
It is a decoration which is Australia’s most awarded civilian medal.
As in Greg’s case, it serves as a means of recognition of an individual’s exceptional service.
When reading the citation which accompanied the medal, RFS South West Slopes Zone District Manager Andrew Dillon said that Greg had performed 40 years service to the organisation, having joined the Kenyu-Goba Creek Rural Fire Brigade in 1977.
He had held a number of positions, including captain, senior deputy, deputy, president, secretary, treasurer, permit officer and deputy group captain of SW Slopes Zone.
Greg was a member of the training committee, of which he was chairperson, trainer and assessor as well as an instructor for driving courses.
“Greg has a passion for learning and is always willing to pass his knowledge on to other people, especially in relation to chainsaws.”
He was currently enrolled with the University of New England, studying a Bachelor in Training and Development, with results including one distinction and the remainder high distinctions. One of his tasks on behalf of the NSWRFS was to travel to Botswana on an assignment to teach fire investigation.
Greg had travelled extensively to assist with fires. One of the projects in which he was heavily involved was the establishment of the new Brigade Fire Station for the Kenyu-Goba Creek Brigade, and he was ‘elated,’ when the project was completed.
Officer Dillon praised Greg for his outstanding service to the organisation.
“Thank you for your dedication and commitment to the NSW Rural Fire Service and to the Boorowa Community.”
Those attending the ceremony later enjoyed socialising with Greg and his friends and family members over supper prepared and served by members of the staff of Mercy Care Centre.
