Rural Fire Service finalist in Employer of the Year Awards
11th September 2009Ministerial media release
Minister for Emergency Services Steve Whan has congratulated the NSW Rural Fire Service (RFS) today for being named as a finalist for NSW Employer of the Year at the 2009 NSW Training Awards last night.
Reaching the finalist stage is recognition of the excellent training and development that the Service provides to both staff and volunteer members across the State, said Mr Whan.
"The high level of training that takes place in fire control centres and stations across the State that often goes unnoticed has been recognised with the RFS reaching the finalist stage," said Mr Whan.
"As an organisation the RFS delivered over 300,000 hours of training in 2008, which is an incredible achievement involving dedication and commitment on the part of the volunteers to undertake the training.
"The RFS delivers training that equips its members for any situation they may encounter. From fighting basic bush fires and attending house fires, right through to leadership in the field and specialist qualifications.
Mr Whan said the expertise and skills from the many years of the RFS serving the community is represented in the training and is why the Service continues to be recognised as a leader both within Australia and internationally.
"The people of NSW can take comfort that the RFS is recognised as an industry leader both here in Australia and overseas," he said.
"All members of the RFS can feel proud today that their hard work and commitment to protecting the people of NSW has been recognised.
"Our volunteers donate their time to undertake this training to gain the expertise to protect the community and so the Rees Government is committed to fully supporting them," said Mr Whan.
Mr Whan said the 2009/10 Rural Fire Fighting Fund was a record $216 million, with spending to include:
- $31.3 million for more than 200 bushfire tankers
- $16 million for new and upgraded brigade stations and fire control centres and the installation of rain water tanks
- $17 million in maintenance grants to local councils
- More than $17 million for bushfire mitigation, including $2 million to help elderly and vulnerable residents reduce their bushfire risk and
- $6 million to boost aerial firefighting resources.
Rural Fire Service finalist in Employer of the Year Awards (PDF 32KB)