Minister Whan expresses condolences on death of SES Deputy Commissioner
14th September 2009Ministerial media release
The Minister for Emergency Services, Steve Whan, has expressed his condolences to the family of the Deputy Commissioner of the New South Wales State Emergency Service (SES), Mr Greg Slater, following his death over the weekend.
Mr Whan said that Mr Slater had been instrumental in the development of the agency since his appointment as Deputy Commissioner in 2004.
"Mr Slater's career in emergency management has been a long and distinguished one."
"After joining the Australian Federal Police (AFP) in 1981 Mr Slater served with distinction, including deployment with the 25th and 26th Contingents of the Australian Civilian Police attached to the UN Force in Cyprus, as a member of the AFP's Special Operations Team, and as a member of the Australian Civilian Police 6th Detatchment for the United Nations Transitional Administration East Timor."
"Mr Slater commenced with the SES in 1998 as the Service's Oxley Region Division Controller, and in 2004 he was appointed to the position of Deputy Director General, this position being retitled Deputy Commissioner last month."
"As Deputy Commissioner Mr Slater was responsible for the leadership and development of the Service's 17 Region Controllers, and with the Commissioner for policy development and leadership of the SES."
Mr Whan said that during his career Mr Slater had been recognised for his bravery, dedication and commitment on numerous occasions.
"Mr Slater was a recipient of the Australian Federal Police Commendation for Brave Conduct and the United Nations Fire Commander's Commendation for Brave Conduct."
"Mr Slater also held an SES Director General's Unit Citation and Director General's Commendation for service."
"Mr Slater's leadership and dedication to the community of New South Wales and to his country will be sorely missed."
"On behalf of the New South Wales Government, I extend my sympathies to Mr Slater's family and colleagues."
Minister Whan expresses condolences on death of SES Deputy Commissioner (PDF 26KB)