7th August, 2024.
On 1 July 2024, I attended Wollondilly Shire Council's presentation of 92 current and former Council staff with the National Emergency Medal. The National Emergency Medal, which was established in 2011 as part of the Australian Honours System, is awarded to people who rendered sustained or significant service during nationally significant emergencies in Australia. These medals were presented in recognition of the service of these staff members during the NSW bushfires in 2019 and 2020. The collective determination and solidarity in the face of challenging and dangerous situations, such as the Green Wattle Creek bushfire emergency, was symbolised by the medal presentation. Every one of these 92 presentations was a reminder of our strong community determination and spirit. The Council staff helped impacted families, livestock, pets, and properties, coordinated relief efforts in every way and simply lent a caring and helping hand that was felt throughout the Wollondilly electorate. On behalf of the electorate, I place on record my congratulations to everyone on receiving this well-deserved recognition for their vital hard work in protecting the community during emergencies. These people are selfless members of our community, who are dedicated to protecting it and its people.