Earlier this month, more than 70 CFA members in the South East Region were awarded National Emergency Medals for their service during the devastating 2009 bushfires.

Member for Eastern Victoria, Harriet Shing MP, joined CFA and community representatives at Lardner Park to present the medals on behalf of the Minister for Emergency Services Jane Garrett.

In awarding the medals, Ms Shing paid tribute to the extraordinary service, courage and resilience shown by recipients during one of the worst bushfires in Victoria’s history.

More than 6,300 National Emergency Medals are being presented to CFA members across Victoria and the medal carries a clasp engraved with ‘Vic Fires 09’.

The National Emergency Medal was first awarded in 2011 after the Queensland floods and Cyclone Yasi. It recognises sustained service during a declared, nationally significant emergency.

Quotes attributable to Member for Eastern Victoria, Harriet Shing MP

“Our CFA members are enormously deserving of our deepest respect, thanks and recognition – they worked tirelessly to save lives and property in horrific conditions, and often at enormous personal risk.”

“With more than 55,000 operational and non-operational volunteers, CFA members work around the clock to protect 3.3 million Victorians and more than one million homes and properties.”

“The Victorian Government is committed to protecting the people who protect us, and our firefighting volunteers are a vital part of our regional communities. It’s an honour to pay tribute to their work in keeping people and property safe”

“In this year’s State Budget, the Andrews Government announced a range of packages to support CFA, including $11 million to build and upgrade CFA stations and amenities, to help units grow and give firefighters a safe and comfortable place to meet and train.

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