Since 2015 the Rotary Districts and Clubs of NSW have acknowledged and celebrated the achievements of emergency services personnel across the state and this year the expanded awards will include the four emergency services agencies in the ACT.

Mr Grant thanked Rotary for establishing the awards, which highlight the invaluable work undertaken by emergency services personnel and volunteers, who often go above and beyond the call of duty.

“The men and women in our emergency services epitomise the traits that bind and strengthen our communities,” Mr Grant said.

“Our emergency services have proudly chosen to devote their time to the service and protection of the community. They are often the first on the scene in times of crisis, and are the lifesaving hands that work to rescue or assist those in desperate need.

“As first responders their contribution to this state is immeasurable and these awards highlight their actions and service.”

In line with the Rotary motto of Service Above Self, the Emergency Services Community Awards recognise emergency services personnel for their community service beyond the call of normal duties.

The awards are the only time that all emergency services personnel, both paid and volunteer, are recognised in a combined awards ceremony.

The expansion of the Awards for the ACT will be the first step in initiating a National Awards recognition, with each State and Territory using the NSW model to recognise and celebrate their unsung heroes.

The Rotary Clubs of Illawarra piloted this very successful project over three years with the support of the local community and emergency services.

On the night it was an opportunity to recognise the services of two Rotarians who have worked tirelessly and shaped the project since its inception - Ian and Carole Johnston of the Rotary Club of Kiama.

Ian and Carole are moving to Canada in April.  This was an ideal opportunity to recognise their dedication and service through the Award of Rotary International’s very prestigious Paul Harris Fellow – PHF – Recognitions, two each from the Rotary District and from the Committee of the Awards.

These added to existing PHF recognitions for each of them.  The Governor of NSW, His Excellency, The Hon David Hurley, Patron of RESCA, pinned the PHF sapphire presented to Ian; while Mrs Hurley presented it to Carole.  

Members of the public and emergency services workers are encouraged to act now,  submit online nominations via the awards website at http://www.rotaryescawards.org.au.

Nominations will close at midnight on Wednesday, March 28. A panel of independent judges from Rotary Districts will assess nominees on three key criteria:

Finalists will be announced on April 11, and an awards dinner will be hosted on Friday, June 1.

For further information, contact Dot Hennessy on 0412 130 314 or by email: dothennessy@gmail.com.