THERE are thousands of first responders in our local area who step up and serve our community in times of emergency, disaster and tragedy.
This week we had the opportunity to show our deep appreciation for their service, as we marked ‘Thank A First Responder Day”.
This year a tragic boating rescue off Ballina led to the loss of life of two long time Marine Rescue volunteers. This brought home to all of us how much our first responders put their lives on the line for their community.
On Wednesday 10 June I attended a special community event in Ballina to mark Thank A First Responder Day.
Children are often fascinated by police, firefighters, paramedics and volunteer rescue services and it was heartening to see the young people involved, with a special song written by students from St Francis Xavier school for the occasion.
On Tuesday I attended the Murwillumbah RFS Annual General Meeting and had the honour of presenting the 2022 awards from the flood rescue.
In Lismore, there was a week of events at Lismore Square, and I commend the management for the innovative way they involved the community.
The Reconstruction Authority and SES invited shoppers to explore the walkable map highlighting the locations of our emergency services.
There was an old-style phone booth set up, where people could leave a message to thank a first responder and at one stage a line of preschoolers was waiting their turn to leave a message.
I took part in the Lismore Square event by video message in which I said: “There are thousands of first responders in our area and I thank each and every one for stepping up to care for us, care for our community, and for their courage.”
