NSW Rural Fire Service

Earlier this morning, the #RFS Large Air Tanker ‘Marie Bashir’ had the honour of being the first large aircraft to land at the new Western Sydney International Airport in Badgerys Creek. Pilot Nigel Long and Co-Pilot Michael Hayes were behind the controls as she successfully touched down, greeted by a crowd of excited onlookers, aviation enthusiasts and airport staff. The landing also marks the start of a two day multi-agency emergency exercise involving more than 300 personnel, including a contingent of RFS firefighters. The exercise will rigorously test the airport’s response capabilities ahead of its scheduled opening in the second half of 2026.

Today marks the official start of the bush fire season, with the Bush Fire Danger Period beginning in most NSW Local Government Areas. If you’re planning on conducting a burn, you’ll require a fire permit from your local Fire Control Centre or #RFS brigade. Fire permits help ensure fire is used safely and reduces the danger to you, your property and the community. Residents and land holders must know the rules when it comes to the use of fire. Along with having the required fire permits, you need to notify your local fire authority and neighbours of your intent to burn at least 24 hours in advance. For more information on the Bush Fire Danger Period and requirements around safe burning, visit our website: www.rfs.nsw.gov.au/BFDP

Congratulations to the Royal Australian Air Force who are commemorating 100 years at Richmond RAAF Base with an exhilarating airshow this weekend. The #RFS is excited to share in the celebrations, which include a showcase of our aviation capabilities. This year also marks a special milestone in our relationship with Richmond RAAF Base, as it's 10 years since the RFS Large Air Tanker began operating from the base.

This week, RFS Commissioner Trent Curtin joined Her Excellency The Governor General at an Investiture ceremony at Government House in Canberra. #RFS members Group Captain Andrew Southwell AFSM and Deputy Group Captain Neil Shepherd AFSM were honoured for their many years of distinguished service.

This week, nine RFS members were presented with the Australian Fire Service Medal (AFSM). The AFSM recognises distinguished service by members of Australian fire services, and is awarded to volunteer and salaried members. RFS Commissioner Trent Curtin joined recipients as they were recognised at Government House in Sydney. Congratulations to the following members for their exceptional service to the RFS and their communities: • Group Captain Andrew Cameron - Hornsby/Ku-ring-gai • Group Captain Wayne Halliday - Northern Tablelands • Deputy Group Captain Philip Hurst - Hawkesbury • Deputy Captain Mark Lewis - Mid Coast • Captain John Nardi - Far North Coast • Deputy Group Captain Neil Shepherd - Southern Tablelands • Group Captain John Page - Clarence Valley • Group Captain Andrew Southwell - South West Slopes • Group Captain Andrew Sweeney - Illawarra/Sutherland • Captain Robert Conroy - Northern Beaches • Superintendent Stephen Walker - Lower Western To read more about the recipients, visit the #RFS website: https://lnkd.in/gkMuc3QK

The RFS Benevolent Fund was established to support RFS members and their families when they need it most. As a charity, it provides practical, tangible and compassionate assistance to those experiencing poverty, distress, or other significant hardship - including the families of firefighters killed on duty and those injured on the fireground. The Fund is governed by a Board of Non-Executive Directors, who are responsible for ensuring the charity achieves its mission. Expressions of Interest are now open for individuals who wish to contribute as a Board Member for a three year appointment. For more information about the EOI process and to submit an application, please visit: https://lnkd.in/g5xTaz6a

Welcome home Marie Bashir! Earlier today, the #RFS Large Air Tanker safely arrived back home in Australia, after being deployed in California for the past few months. During the deployment, the Marie Bashir and her crew played a vital role supporting California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE) through a demanding fire season. Our LAT worked on 26 separate fires, dropping more than 630,000 litres of retardant to help firefighting efforts and protect communities across California. After undergoing maintenance before the return flight, she is now ready to support our own firefighting operations here in NSW and throughout Australia in the months ahead. Coulson Aviation Australia

Are you a passionate about the safeguarding lives within the world's largest volunteer fire service? The #RFS is currently recruiting for a Safety Manager to lead a dedicated team to deliver operational and safety management advice as well as ongoing support, services and training to our members across NSW. For more information about the opportunity, please visit: https://lnkd.in/gbR2VNWP

Are you a dynamic person that loves a fast paced environment? The #RFS is currently recruiting for a Legal Officer who shares a passion for community service and environmental protection to work across a diverse range of legal areas. For more information about the opportunity, please visit: https://brnw.ch/21wUQ9o

Are you passionate about delivering mental health strategies to an emergency based service? The #RFS is looking for a qualified Organisational Psychologist to support and improve the mental health of over 70,000 volunteers and staff within the NSW RFS. For more information about the opportunity, visit: https://brnw.ch/21wUQ9l