More than 100 New England SES volunteers thanked for incredible service at 'positive' ceremony

The recipients between them have notched up more than1445 years of service, and SES NSW was more than happy to give something back.

Superintendent Mitch Parker said it was an emotional occasion, and it was obvious to see how much it meant to the award recipients. "It's really rewarding to give back to those who provide so much to the community," he said.

"The members are out at these jobs in adverse weather, for very long hours, helping the community and it's least that the government and we can do as organisation to recognise their long and valued service."

Being an SES member in the New England can be a really difficult job, Supt Parker said, given the range of dangers and incidents they can face.

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They have been asked to help deal with floods and storms, there are units tasked with carrying out land and vertical rescues, and there are also community first responder units attached to NSW Ambulance.

There are 32 units across 12 local government areas in the region, totalling 550 active volunteers.

Supt Parker said it was an excellent atmosphere at the ceremony, and those who were there enjoyed the camaraderie.

"It was really rewarding and refreshing to be part of a room full of 100 positive people, who were all excited to come together and celebrate each other's achievements."

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