NSW Emergency Services community awards finalist

29th Jul 2025

Wayne Mendes, the dedicated Captain of VRA Rescue NSW – Guyra, has been named a finalist in the 2025 Rotary Districts of NSW Emergency Services Community Awards (RESCA), an honour that recognises exceptional contributions from emergency service personnel across the state.
Mendes, affectionately known in the community as “Mexico,” has served the Guyra VRA Rescue Squad for nearly 40 years, joining the unit in 1986. In that time, he has consistently gone above and beyond the call of duty, embodying the Rotary motto of “Service Above Self.”
From leading critical rescue missions to mentoring new recruits, Mendes’ unwavering commitment has made him a cornerstone of emergency response in the region.
Other VRA Rescue NSW finalists for this year’s awards include:
• Paul Smith – VRA Rescue NSW – Leeton
• Aaron Burrows – VRA Rescue NSW – Lithgow
• Barry Tomlinson – VRA Rescue NSW – Gulgong
Throughout his career, Mendes has played vital roles in responses to natural disasters such as the Moree floods, the devastating 2019 bushfires, and numerous large-scale search and rescue operations. Even after retiring from his local council role in 2021, his commitment has only deepened.
He remains on call 24/7, maintains rescue equipment, trains the next generation of volunteers, and actively supports community initiatives including school safety programs and ANZAC Day fundraisers.
The 2025 finalists were officially announced by the NSW Minister for Emergency Services, the Hon. Jihad Dib, during a ceremony at Parliament House.
“These awards are a fantastic opportunity to shine a light upon the enormous contributions of emergency services workers,” Minister Dib said.
“They put themselves at risk without hesitation to help others—often in the most dangerous and unpredictable situations.”
Winners from each emergency service category will be revealed during the official Awards Presentation Ceremony on Saturday, August 2nd.