NSW SES Volunteers Receive Australia Bravery Awards

Two NSW SES Volunteers have been recognised for their role in a search and rescue Kosciusko National Park, New South Wales.

In August 2010, David Afele and Daniel (Dan) Marsden were part of a joint emergency services effort looking for two people trapped on a blizzard. David was a member of the Snowy River SES Unit, while Dan has recently re-joined his unit based in Goulburn.

Today our 2 NSW SES volunteers will receive a Group Bravery Citation for their efforts joining 3 NSW Police Officers and 2 NSW Paramedics on the search.

The Governor-General, His Excellency General the Honourable Sir Peter Cosgrove AK MC (Retd), today awarded Australian Bravery Decorations to 101 outstanding Australians who, without thought of personal risk, displayed courage and bravery to protect or defend others.

“They are a source of courage, support and inspiration, and we are a stronger, safer and more caring nation because of them,” the Governor-General said.

NSW SES Acting Commissioner Kyle Stewart congratulated both men on their awards.

“Our volunteers represent the very best of the NSW SES.

“David and Dan put the safety of our community first even in a dangerous situation.”

Mr Stewart said they are examples of the highly and dedicated 9,000 volunteers across the State, committed to their communities in times of disaster.

Australian Bravery Decorations recognises acts of bravery in other than warlike situations. It’s part of the Australian Honours System (established in 1975) for people putting themselves in jeopardy to protect the lives or property of others.

The NSW SES is Australia’s leading emergency recuse agency for flood, storms and tsunami. We have more than 9,000 volunteers ready to help and support NSW communities in times of disaster.

Picture of Dan Marsden

Dan Marsden recognised for his role in a search and rescue Kosciusko National Park, New South Wales

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