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Firefighters Honoured for Black Summer Bushfire Work
Deputy Chief Officer Matthew Lowe and District Officer Anthony Goss Tasmanian Fire Service receiving awards.
Two Tasmanian fire investigators have been recognised by the New South Wales Rural Fire Service (NSW RFS) for their exceptional work during the 2019-2020 Black Summer bushfires.
Deputy Chief Officer Matthew Lowe and District Officer Anthony Goss of the Tasmania Fire Service were awarded a Unit Citation for Service by the NSW RFS. The two were part of the Joint Agency Fire Investigation (JAFI) Taskforce, a group of 64 investigators from various agencies who worked to understand the causes and impacts of the catastrophic fires. This is believed to be the first time the NSW RFS has awarded a Unit Citation to personnel from outside the organisation.
Tasmanian Fire Service members honoured with NSW Rural Fire Service Unit Citation
The New South Wales Rural Fire Service (NSW RFS) has formally recognised the outstanding contribution of two Tasmanian fire investigators for their work during the devastating Black Summer bushfires of 2019–2020.
In a special presentation today, Tasmania Fire Service Deputy Chief Officer Matthew Lowe and District Officer Anthony Goss received Unit Citations for Service from the NSW RFS Assistant Commissioner, Ben Millington, acknowledging their role in the Joint Agency Fire Investigation (JAFI) Taskforce.
Fire and Emergency Services Commissioner, Jeremy Smith said the presentation marks a significant milestone, as it is believed to be the first time a Unit Citation has been awarded by the NSW RFS to personnel outside the organisation.
“Deputy Chief Officer Lowe and District Officer Goss were among 64 investigators and support personnel from across NSW RFS, Fire and Rescue NSW, NSW Police Force, and Tasmania Fire Service who contributed to the JAFI Taskforce.
“Their work was instrumental in understanding the causes and impacts of the catastrophic fires that swept across the country. This award is a testament to the professionalism, dedication, and collaborative spirit of our fire investigators.
“We are incredibly proud of Deputy Chief Officer Lowe and District Officer Goss for their outstanding contribution to bushfire investigation and prevention.
“Their dedication and professionalism during the Black Summer fires exemplify the strength of inter-agency collaboration and the vital role our personnel play in protecting communities,” said Smith.
The presentation also highlights the importance of working with other jurisdictions during times of need.
“Just as other agencies have supported Tasmania during our most challenging fire seasons, we are proud to stand alongside our interstate colleagues when they need us,” Smith said.
“This kind of co-operation strengthens our collective ability to respond to emergencies and protect lives and property across Australia.”
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