SES members recognised for 60 years of service

NORTHERN Rivers volunteers who played crucial roles during extreme weather events and catastrophic disasters were recognised at the NSW SES North Eastern Zone awards.

Lismore SES Unit member Ed Bennett received a 60-year long service clasp and National Emergency Medal for efforts during Cyclone Debbie in 2017.

He joined the SES in 1964 while teaching at Richmond River High School and has been in flood intelligence units in the region for multiple decades.

He was one of several volunteers and community members who worked tirelessly during the Lismore floods in 2022.

“During that time, community members took to their own boats and jet skis to rescue people, as we simply didn’t have enough resources,” Bennett said.

“The scale of the challenge was huge, and our teams worked tirelessly to assist their communities. I’m truly proud of their commitment to helping others.

“The satisfaction that comes from (that) is unmatched.”

Other recipients were South Lismore flood warden John Habib, who received his 60-year long service clasp.

Senior group officer and deputy unit commander Rick Jansen was also recognised with a service clasp for his work over two decades.

Group officer Kelley Bohn received a 10-year Long Service Medal along with Mullumbimby’s Max Joffe.

NSW SES North Eastern Zone Commander Gregory Swindells has been travelling around the northern end of the state announcing the awards.

“The courage and dedication displayed by our members remind us of the strength found in community and service,” he said.

The Lismore SES Unit also recognised Darren Bird and James Dalu for 10 years of service earlier this year.

It was a double honour for Bird, who received a National Emergency Medal for his efforts in the 2019 bushfires.