News

Editor’s note: Images available here - https://spaces.hightail.com/space/hRDaum4gPM

A dedication to saving lives on regional highways and responding to natural disasters over five decades has earned two NSW State Emergency Service (SES) members long service awards. 

Six members of the NSW SES Gundagai Unit were recognised on Saturday, with various honours, including National Emergency Medals and 50-year long service awards, celebrating a combined total of 140 years of commitment to saving lives and creating safer communities. 

The Gundagai Unit, though small with just 26 active members, has made a significant impact, responding to 35 incidents this year and a total of 141 calls over the past three years. 

The Unit has a rich history dating back to the mid-1960s, initially formed in response to the growing need for a dedicated Road Crash Rescue unit due to increasing accidents on the Hume Highway. 

NSW SES volunteers Joe Bond and Bernard Smith were honoured with 50-year Long Service Awards. 

Reflecting on the early days, Mr Bond recounted a time when the unit had limited resources.  

“There was no SES in Gundagai, so we were doing it ourselves - responding to road accidents and floods with tow trucks and boats of our own,” he said. 

“We did all our own fundraising through wood drives and street stalls. That’s what it took to survive as a community.” 

Today, the NSW SES is fully funded by the NSW Government with facilities support from Local Government. The Gundagai Unit boasts advanced resources, including two boats and specialised rescue vehicles, made possible through ongoing fleet replacement programs. 

NSW SES Assistant Commissioner Coline Malone praised the Gundagai Unit members for their achievements. 

“The dedication and resilience of members is truly inspiring,” Assistant Commissioner Malone said. 

“Joe and Bernard exemplify what it means to serve the community, showcasing a commitment that has lasted five decades. Their contributions have made a lasting impact on many lives.” 

Gundagai Unit Commander Ross Tout also received a Long Service Award for 20 years of service. He commended both Mr Bond and Mr Smith for their remarkable dedication.  

“These men bleed orange,” he said. 

Mr Tout shared a powerful anecdote about Joe Bond’s commitment to the service. 

“A woman involved in a road crash was bleeding profusely - Joe cared for her and provided assistance for hours to treat her bleeding. That’s the kind of person he is.” 

Mr Bond expressed the personal fulfillment he derives from helping others. 

“I was raised to help people. When I assist, the satisfaction I get from their appreciation is invaluable. We work as an entire team to achieve positive outcomes. Our camaraderie is what keeps us going, especially during tough times.” 

Unit Commander Ross Tout told of a touching story about a woman who returned ten years after receiving help from the Gundagai Unit to express her gratitude to the members who assisted her.  

“She remembered Bernard Smiths name, he has a unique ability to calm people during stressful times,” Mr Tout said. 

Bernard Smith reflected on his 50 years at the NSW SES.  

“Receiving this award is humbling. I’m proud to serve alongside such dedicated individuals who share a common goal of helping our community. It’s been an incredible journey.” 

The awards ceremony served as a heartfelt acknowledgment of the invaluable contributions made by all volunteers, highlighting the NSW SES’s deep gratitude for their service to the Gundagai community and beyond.