A team of volunteers, who are working towards their road accident rescue operators qualifications, responded to an mock incident outside Tilba with two cars that had rolled off the road down a slope with six casualties.

At the debriefing after the exercise both incident coordinators Mal Barry and Jeff Garrad praised the team for their expertise in completing the somewhat difficult rescue without any major issues.

“Their training will serve to help the public involved road accidents on our roads,” Mr Barry said.

Then on Sunday afternoon, the squad welcomed the Volunteer Rescue Association Commissioner, Mark Gibson and Director of Operations Country, Ray Willett, who visited the squad and awarded commendations, to both Jeff Garrad and Mal Barry.

Jeff Garrad, Deputy Captain of the squad, was awarded the Volunteer Rescue Association’s Long Service Medal for 15 years service to the squad and community.

Mr Garrad has been a long serving member of the squad with many roles including Captain.

He is a great asset to the squad with the newer members looking to him for his expertise and knowledge. He is also a member of the Tilba Rural Fire Service brigade.

Mal Barry, the squad’s training officer, was awarded the 2nd and 3rd Clasp for the National Medal.

The National Medal is awarded to volunteer and professional emergency service member for years of service.

Mr Barry’s service extends more than 35 years as a volunteer and professional in the emergency services, being involved with both NSW and Victoria State Emergency Service, NSW Ambulance Service and now the Narooma rescue squad.

In making the presentations, Mr Gibson said that it was a privilege to present these awards to two volunteers who had given extraordinary service to the Narooma rescue squad.

The Commissioner then took the opportunity to outline future improvements for the VRA and to answer questions and meet the squad members present.

See more photos and information about joining the squad on the Narooma Rescue Squad - VRA Facebook page.