Baldersleigh RFS recognises decades of service

Standing l to r: Colin Gordon, Richard Gordon, James Stewart, Alan Wylie, Diane Hansford, Herb Wilson, Wal Chapman, Tony McRae, Peter Mulligan. Kneeling: Robyn Gordon, Christine McRae, Zac Van Dam
03rd Nov 2026

Decades of dedication to the local community were celebrated at Baldersleigh Rural Fire Service (RFS) on Saturday, October 31, when long service medals were presented to members.
The presentation was conducted by Zac Van Dam, representing New England RFS, and recognised members for their years of commitment and service.
RFS long service medals are awarded in recognition of every 10 years of service, with additional clasps presented for each further 10-year milestone.
Among the recipients were two members who have given an extraordinary number of years to the service, with Richard Gordon recognised for 50 years and Herb Wilson for an impressive 60 years.
The occasion also provided an opportunity for members, families and supporters to come together, catch up and socialise ahead of the upcoming fire season.
The celebration acknowledged the important role families play in supporting volunteer firefighters.
“It’s not just a medal for the recipient, it’s a medal for their families as well.
“They wouldn’t be able to do the job without family support,” the presenter acknowledged, thanking families for their ongoing support of members.
All recipients were commended for their dedication, commitment and many years of service to their local community.