Young volunteers from across the state have been acknowledged for their outstanding contribution to their communities at the 2025 NSW Rural Fire Service (RFS) Youth Awards, held at the RFS Headquarters in Sydney Olympic Park.
Among the standout recipients was Narrabri’s own Patrick O’Hanlon, who was named Young Volunteer of the Year in the 12–15 years category.
Patrick joined the Narrabri Rural Fire Brigade on his 12th birthday and has been an active and committed member ever since. As part of a strong juniors program in the region, he has played a key role in its success, representing the brigade at the RFS State Championships in 2024 and again at the Australian Fire Cadet Championships in October this year.
His leadership qualities have already begun to shine through. Patrick regularly steps into crew leader roles during training and competitions, guiding his team through complex scenarios. He also mentors new junior members, helping them get familiar with equipment and develop the skills required to compete.
Beyond training grounds, Patrick has stepped up during real emergencies. In August, he assisted during the flood response in Narrabri, filling sandbags and carrying out damage assessments to support the SES. He is a familiar face at community engagement activities including brigade open days, Get Ready Weekends, the Narrabri Show and other local events. He also volunteers his time at fundraising efforts and actively encourages other young people to join the brigade, contributing to a boost in junior member numbers.
RFS Commissioner Trent Curtin said the annual youth awards program recognises the vital role young people play within the Service.
“Our young members are the future of the RFS and seeing their passion and capability gives me great confidence in the generations of volunteers to come,” Commissioner Curtin said.
“Their willingness to step forward, learn and contribute at a young age is truly inspiring.
“I congratulate this year’s winners, thank them for their contribution to the NSW community and wish them all well in their future endeavours.”
The Youth Awards program began with the Cadet of the Year Award in 2009, which acknowledges outstanding participants in the Secondary School Cadet Programs. Since then, additional awards have been introduced to celebrate the achievements of RFS members under the age of 25 who actively serve in their local brigades.
The 2025 RFS Youth Award recipients are:
- Cadet of the Year – Lauren Wiggett
- Young Volunteer of the Year (12–15 years) – Patrick O’Hanlon
- Young Volunteer of the Year (16–25 years) – Elliott Simpson
Minister for Emergency Services Jihad Dib commended the recipients and highlighted the importance of fostering youth involvement in the emergency services.
“These awards highlight the dedication of young people who volunteer their time to protect and support their communities, at the same time learning valuable life skills that will also benefit them,” Minister Dib said.
“Their stories are a powerful example of what can be achieved when we support the next generation to step up and lead and I commend each of the award recipients for their commitment.”
“Our emergency service volunteers have been tested by extreme weather and fires this year and RFS members have been at the forefront protecting communities. If people are considering volunteering, I encourage them to follow in the footsteps of these young leaders and join the RFS where there is a role for everybody.”
Patrick’s recognition shines a light on the strength of the RFS youth programs in regional New South Wales, and on the passion and drive of young volunteers determined to make a difference.
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