News

A devoted member of the NSW State Emergency Service (SES) with over two decades of service has been awarded an Emergency Services Medal in this year’s Kings Birthday Honours. 

Terrie-Ann Hurt began her journey with the NSW SES in 2003, when she joined the Shellharbour Unit at the age of twenty-three. Since then, she has exemplified expectational commitment, playing a pivotal role in advancing the NSW SES through her leadership and mentorship. 

A humble Terrie-Ann attributes her success at the NSW SES to others she has worked alongside.  

“I just love the people that I get to work with and the impact we are all able to make. We have access to great training practices where we learn useful skills and then get to put them into practice alongside amazing people,” Ms Hurt said.   

With a career marked by dedication and resilience, Terrie-Ann has led local units throughout the Illawarra in response to major operational events, including the 2013 Kiama tornado and Shellharbour windstorm.  

Her contributions extend beyond state borders, having deployed to Queensland twice to support significant weather events. Terrie-Ann has received three Commissioner’s Unit Citations for her exemplary service, and also volunteered during nationally significant emergencies including Cyclone Yasi in 2011, Cyclone Debbie in 2017 and the Black Summer Bushfires in 2019-20, receiving the National Emergency Medal (and clasps) for her efforts. 

Minister for Emergency Services Jihad Dib said volunteers like Terrie-Ann are the backbone of communities across NSW.  

"Terrie-Ann's impactful contributions reach far and wide,” Minister Dib said 

“She has displayed incredible commitment and drive in her time at the NSW SES. 

“I express my utmost gratitude to Terrie-Ann for her invaluable service and extend heartfelt congratulations on receiving the Emergency Services Medal.” 

NSW SES Acting Commissioner, Debbie Platz APM, congratulated and thanked Terrie-Ann for her ongoing service to her communities, both locally and interstate.  

"Terrie-Ann serves as an inspiration to her fellow members in orange, and we commend her for the invaluable service and expertise she brings to NSW SES volunteers," Acting Commissioner Platz said. 

"Drawing upon her diverse skill set, Terrie-Ann has not only provided assistance during recent floods, storms and bushfires - but has remained a pillar of support for her community for more than two decades. 

“This accolade awarded to Terrie-Ann celebrates and epitomises the dedication, selflessness and determination of our wider volunteer membership who tirelessly aid communities during times of crisis.”