Blue Mountains SES volunteers were recognised recently at a presentation evening in Katoomba.
Fifty SES members received certificates and awards to acknowledge long service and training.
Local controller John Hughes was awarded the Second Clasp of the National Medal, a federally issued medal for 35 years’ service.
Mr Hughes joined the SES as a teenager in 1982 and said he has never looked back since.
“Whilst it is challenging, at the end of the day it is comforting that we can help each other in the community at times of need,” he said.
“The professional and nationally accredited training we receive in emergency management has even helped me with my career away from the SES”.
Other members of the Blue Mountains Unit received awards for five, 10, 15 and 25 years of service.
As well as long service award, many received certificates in completing courses in chainsaw operations, land search, storm and other rescue qualifications.
Among the guests that attended the presentation night included Federal Member Susan Templeman, State Member Trish Doyle, Katoomba-based Upper House MP Shayne Mallard, deputy mayor Chris Van der Kley and the Commissioner of the NSW SES Mark Smethurst