News
1 October, 2026
68 years on the frontline: RFS legend among 150 volunteers honoured
A Southern Tablelands firefighter who first joined the Rural Fire Service in 1957 has been recognised alongside more than 150 volunteers honoured across the Southern Highlands and Tablelands.
A Southern Tablelands firefighter who first joined the Rural Fire Service in 1957 has been recognised alongside more than 150 volunteers honoured across the Southern Highlands and Tablelands.
Anthony Hall has now given 68 years of service to the RFS, making him one of the standout recipients from two major recognition ceremonies held in Mittagong and Crookwell.
Mr Hall has served as Deputy Captain and Captain of Peelwood Brigade, as well as Deputy Group Captain and Group Captain across the Upper Lachlan and Crookwell areas.
“Anthony has devoted more than six decades to protecting his community,” Acting Area Commander South Eastern Chief Superintendent Matthew Reeves said.
He was among more than 100 Southern Tablelands volunteers honoured in Crookwell, where one National Emergency Medal, seven National Medals and 93 Long Service Medals were presented.
Remarkably, 21 of those volunteers had each served for 50 years or more.
Another 13 members received the NSW Premier’s Flood Emergency Citation for their contribution during the 2022-23 NSW floods.
The recognition followed a Southern Highlands ceremony in Mittagong where 47 medals and citations were presented to volunteers representing more than 1,200 years of combined service.
RFS Deputy Commissioner Ben Millington gave special recognition to Michael Course, who has served for more than 55 years.
“Each medal represents years, and in many cases, decades of commitment, sacrifice and selfless service,” Deputy Commissioner Millington said.
Three new vehicles were also officially handed over to Silverdale, Canyonleigh and the Southern Highlands Support Brigade.
The new Category 1 bushfire tankers and logistics vehicles include upgraded safety systems and technology aimed at improving frontline capability.
Deputy Commissioner Millington said the new vehicles would help brigades operating in challenging terrain and remote areas respond more quickly and safely.
The Southern Tablelands district alone has 65 brigades and almost 3,880 volunteers, responding to bush and grass fires, storms, motor vehicle crashes and requests to assist other emergency services.
Both ceremonies also recognised the families, employers and friends who support volunteers and make it possible for them to answer the call when emergencies strike.
To prepare for bushfire season, please visit the RFS website for valuable information https://www.rfs.nsw.gov.au/plan-and-prepare
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