News

Five outstanding NSW State Emergency Service (NSW SES) volunteers have been recognised for their incredible acts of bravery, following a ceremony at NSW Government House. 

The Royal Humane Society of NSW Awards for Bravery Investiture, held yesterday (Thursday 21 November 2024), recognises and supports acts of bravery and selflessness across Australia. For nearly 150 years, they have honoured those who risk their lives for others, ensuring that their extraordinary deeds are acknowledged, remembered, and celebrated for generations to come. 

NSW SES Assistant Commissioner Sean Kearns said the five awarded members showcased remarkable courage in the face of danger. 

“Today we recognise and thank these members for their acts of bravery,” Assistant Commissioner Kearns said.  

“Day in and day out they demonstrate their commitment to their local communities in protecting and serving during times of floods, storms and other natural disasters, including fires.” 

NSW SES City of Sydney members Sonny Barnett and Robert McFarland received a Bronze Medal for the rescue of a person stuck in a tree in raging flood waters at The Boulevarde, Holsworthy, on the evening of 2 July 2022. They stayed with the survivor for 30 minutes, supporting her with a personal floatation device until a rescue boat crew arrived.  

Shellharbour member John McCloghry also received a Bronze Medal for the evacuation of Fisherman’s Paradise township during the Currowan bushfires, on 31 December 2019. Acting alone, he raised the alarm as smoke and embers blew through the town. He then stationed himself at the intersection of the Pacific Highway and the access road and directed distraught residents to safety.  

Sutherland member Fiona Butlin and Cronulla member Elyse Riordan both received a Certificate of Merit for the attempted rescue of a a driver stuck in their vehicle in flood waters at Audley Weir on the afternoon of 9 February 2023. Thankfully the driver managed to escape from the vehicle and swim to safety.  

The Royal Humane Society of New South Wales has been recognising the bravery of its citizens since 1887. 

All Royal Humane Society of New South Wales award recipients are nominated by community members or emergency services.  The nominations are investigated and verified by the Royal Humane Society of New South Wales with the executive board then choosing the successful nominees for the most appropriate award and recognition for what they have done.