Grampians region volunteers recognised for exemplary service
Victoria State Emergency Service (VICSES) volunteers from Victoria’s Grampians Region have been celebrated for their vital role in protecting communities during times of emergency, with a select cohort recognised for volunteer service of between five and 35 years.
At an intimate ceremony held in Stawell recently, nine volunteers representing VICSES units stretching from Warracknabeal to Woodend were presented service honours recognising their tenure with VICSES, as part of the organisation’s annual awards initiative.
Family, friends and VICSES volunteer and staff colleagues, including VICSES Chief Executive Officer Rob Purcell, VICSES Acting Chief Officer Operations Alistair Drayton and VICSES Assistant Chief Officer Sam Holloway-Roden, were also in attendance to join in the celebration.
VICSES Bacchus Marsh Unit was well-represented on the day, with volunteer Graham Wilkinson joining Stawell Unit stalwart Gary Raeburn in celebrating 30 years with VICSES.
Lynette Purcell (25 years) and Matthew Brindley (5 years) were also among the Bacchus Marsh cohort to receive long-service medals on the day, while colleague Peter Olthof received a 2nd clasp for his National Medal, recognising 35 years of exemplary service in the Bacchus Marsh community.
The National Medal is awarded to volunteers on behalf of the Governor General who have provided diligent and outstanding service over a period of at least 15 years, with a clasp awarded for each ensuing decade.
While Peter received a clasp to add to his National Medal, VICSES Woodend Unit volunteer Brenda Addicoat was awarded an initial National Medal, acknowledging service to communities on Melbourne’s northern fringes.
Other long-service awards were presented to Warracknabeal Unit’s Geoffrey Stewart, honouring his 15 years of committed volunteer service, while Sebastian La Spina (Whittlesea) and Brenda Far-a-voni (Stawell) received awards celebrating a decade of involvement.
Quotes attributable to Sam Holloway-Roden, VICSES Assistant Chief Officer:
“VICSES volunteers are available 24/7, 365 days a year to support communities in times of emergency, so these events are a great way to gather together and reflect on these achievements with family, friends and fellow first responders.
“The dedication our volunteers show to their community is admirable, and these awards are a small token of our appreciation.”
