FFMVic staff honoured for emergency service

NEARLY three dozen Forest Fire Management Victoria (FFMVic) staff from across the Otways and Geelong region have been recognised for their outstanding commitment to protecting communities during emergencies.

The prestigious National Medal and 1st and 2nd Medal Clasps were awarded at a presentation in Anglesea last week on behalf of the Office of the Governor-General.

The 35 staff honoured at the event have worked in a diverse range of roles during emergencies, from firefighting and wildlife welfare to aerial fire attack and bushfire investigation.

The National Medal was established on February 14, 1975 as one of the original elements of the Australian system of honours and awards.

The National Medal recognises long and diligent service by members of recognised organisations, who have risked their safety to assist the community during emergencies and natural disasters.

At least 15 years of eligible service is necessary to be considered for a National Medal nomination.

National Medal Clasps can be awarded for each following decade of service.

The longest-serving staff member honoured was regional manager of forest and fire planning David Rourke, who received a National Medal, a 1st Clasp and a 2nd Clasp recognising 39 years of service.

Based in Geelong, Mr Rourke has worked in a range of emergency roles, from on-ground firefighter and air attack supervisor to incident controller during responses to emergencies.

“Our group is honoured to receive these medals – it’s an opportunity to reflect on our respective careers and challenges we’ve faced together, as well as the support we’ve received from loved ones,” he said.

“I know many of us here would like to thank our families.

These awards also represent the sacrifice of time away from them and holidays and family events missed. So, in a very big way these awards are theirs, too.”

The recipients have been deployed to emergencies across Victoria, interstate and across the world.

Their deployments include the Wye River bushfires, Queensland floods, Black Saturday bushfires, Black Summer bushfires, COVID response, Cetacean emergencies and fires in Canada and the USA.

“It’s an honour to present these prestigious awards, recognising years of exceptional contributions and dedication to serving the community,” FFMVic deputy chief fire officer Andrew Morrow said.

“We’re proud of the versatility of our medal recipients – their ability to step out of their day jobs and into their emergency roles have provided vital protection to communities during fires, floods and other emergencies.”