The vital work local emergency service volunteers play in protecting the community has been acknowledged at a special event.
Ten local emergency service agencies were represented at the third Volunteer Appreciation Evening held at the Mandurah Performing Arts Centre on November 2.
The City of Mandurah event included a social sundowner, moving agency speeches and the announcement of the community spirit award winners.
There are a variety of agencies and organisations that support volunteer services in times of need, and also through various community events and activities.
Local emergency service volunteers make a valuable contribution in a range of areas, including bushfire services, land search and rescue services, first aid, state emergency services, cadets, marine rescue services and surf lifesaving.
Mandurah mayor Rhys Williams acknowledged the strong community spirit that the local emergency service volunteers demonstrate and thanked them for their personal contribution.
“Our local emergency service volunteers donate their time to protect our community and it’s so important to recognise the critical role they play,” Mr Williams said.
“These volunteers represent what the Mandurah spirit is about... helping others, reaching out, and giving up valuable time for the community, and the evening was a great way to say thanks.”
During the event, the community spirit awards were announced.
This year’s recipients were:
- Alan Bennett – Mandurah Southern Districts Bush Fire Brigade
- Phillip Rance – Mandurah State Emergency Service
- Falcon Volunteer Fire & Rescue Service – Unit Award
- Mandurah Volunteer Fire & Rescue Service – Unit Award
- Mandurah Volunteer Marine Rescue Group – Unit Award
- Garry Williams – Peel Support Operations Group
- St John Ambulance Dawesville – Unit Award
- Tanya Turner – Port Bouvard Surf Life Saving Club
- St John Ambulance EHS – Unit Award
- Clay Anderson – Mandurah Surf Life Saving Club
The Awards aim to recognise those who display outstanding dedication, community involvement and personal attitude.