Member for Cootamundra Steph Cooke has praised the work of first responders in the local community during a visit to the Narrandera Combined Emergency Services Open Day at Marie Bashir Park in Narrandera on Saturday.
Ms Cooke was among those in attendance and praised the work of first responders in the local community.
“We are incredibly fortunate to have such dedicated emergency service professionals working tirelessly for our communities,” Ms Cooke said.
“These kinds of events are not only informative and a great way for families to learn about the crucial role of our emergency services, but they’re also a great opportunity for us to say ‘thank you’ for the work these teams of people do each and every day, to help us in times of trouble, and to keep our communities safe places to live.
“The little ones especially absolutely loved the chance to sit up in the fire engines and on board the rescue equipment, while I was excited to meet the NSW Ambulance puppy mascots who proved to be very popular members of the team.”
Around 400 people gathered on the day to watch live demonstrations and displays of vehicles and equipment.
The event also allowed the community a chance to meet and talk with emergency services about the work they do to keep the community safe as well as how to lend a hand whether it be volunteering or other means.
The Rapid Relief Team generously provided a free BBQ and refreshments throughout the day at no extra cost.
After such an overwhelming success for their first event, the emergency services are planning to host more such occasions in the future.
The Open Day was one of similar events held across the state over the weekend, giving locals the chance to meet and talk with emergency service personnel about the work they do to keep the community safe.
Fun-filled event brings emergency services to forefront
“We are incredibly fortunate to have such dedicated emergency service professionals working tirelessly for our communities,” Ms Cooke said.
“Open Days like this are a fantastic opportunity for the community to come together, show our appreciation, and learn more about the important work these heroes do.
“From firefighters to paramedics, police officers to VRA Rescue members, and SES volunteers, the day was a chance to learn about the vital roles these individuals play in our towns and villages.
“The rainy weather certainly didn’t dampen the high spirits of our emergency services in Narrandera, and I had a truly wonderful time,” she said.
The event featured live demonstrations, displays of vehicles and equipment, and informative presentations designed to educate attendees on various aspects of emergency response and preparedness.
“The little ones especially absolutely loved the chance to sit up in the fire engines and on board the rescue equipment, while I was excited to meet the NSW Ambulance puppy mascots who proved to be very popular members of the team,” Ms Cooke said.
All of Narrandera’s emergency services were present, including the SES, the Volunteer Rescue Association (VRA), Fire and Rescue NSW, the Rural Fire Service (RFS), Police Force and the Rapid Relief Team.
The day aimed to bring the services together to become familiar with one another while also engaging with the community and it achieved that aim.
Captain of the Fire and Rescue squad, Neal Tait, was impressed with the turnout and support on the day.
“It was a really great day and it was well supported considering the weather on Saturday,” he said.
“There was some interest [in recruitment] from the community, and there were a lot of questions about what is involved, what they have to do, and that was good.”
This article appeared in the Narrandera Argus, 16 May 2024.
