Firefighters across the New England region have received a major boost with six new firefighting trucks delivered and more than 45 local volunteers honoured for their long service at an event in Tamworth yesterday. The upgrades come as the Bush Fire Danger Period is extended permanently across Armidale, Uralla and Walcha from 1 September to 31 March each year, following a recommendation by the New England Bush Fire Management Committee.
At a ceremony at the Tamworth Fire Control Centre in Westdale on Sunday, NSW Rural Fire Service (RFS) Superintendent Paul Metcalfe joined special guests to present 49 Long Service Medals to volunteers whose combined service spans more than 1,800 years.
“Today is an opportunity to recognise the hard work and incredible contribution of all RFS volunteers across the region, particularly those who have dedicated decades of service,” Superintendent Metcalfe said.
Among those recognised were Charles May from the Nundle Brigade and John Thrift from Bendemeer, each marking an extraordinary 60 years of service.
“Both men have held numerous leadership roles in their brigades,” Superintendent Metcalfe said.
“The medals we present them with today are a testament to their enduring commitment and selfless service to the people of New South Wales.”
In addition to the awards, six new fire trucks were officially handed over to brigades in Bendemeer, Loomberah, Halls Creek, Limbri and Moree Creek. The vehicles represent an investment of more than $2 million and are part of a broader effort to ensure RFS members have access to the latest equipment and technology.
“It’s important RFS members have access to modern firefighting technology when preparing for and responding to fires and other incidents,” Superintendent Metcalfe said.
“These new trucks will enable the brigades to strengthen their firefighting efforts in the local area.”
The support comes as the region faces a longer window of elevated fire risk, with the Bush Fire Danger Period now starting a full month earlier than in previous years. The change reflects increasing concerns about seasonal variability, fuel loads, and the growing frequency of extreme fire weather events.
From 1 September, residents in the Armidale, Uralla and Walcha Local Government Areas will need a permit to light open fires. The RFS is urging landholders to prepare early by clearing gutters, removing flammable materials, and creating a bushfire survival plan.
The community is also encouraged to download the Hazards Near Me app to stay informed during the danger period.
Superintendent Metcalfe said the ceremony was a timely reminder of the work undertaken by thousands of volunteer firefighters across the region every day.
“The efforts of RFS volunteers do not go unnoticed and today’s event provides a great opportunity to publicly acknowledge the outstanding work of our thousands of volunteer bush firefighters, who are available to serve their communities 24 hours a day, seven days a week,” he said.
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