This year Tweed District Rescue Squad celebrates its 40th Anniversary.
Since 1972 more than 2250 people across the Tweed Shire have received assistance in areas of road crash rescue, industrial and domestic accidents and land and vertical rescue.
The NSW Volunteer Rescue Association (VRA) was formed in 1969, with Kingscliff Rescue Squad joining as an affiliation to the organisation in 1972.
It was formed when the community saw there was need for a rescue squad in the area following several accidents. In 1985 the name was changed to reflect the greater coverage of the Tweed Shire.
Tweed Rescue Squad President, Jamie Stoddart said it changed its name in 1985 to reflect the greater coverage of the Tweed Shire.
“The rescue squad is excited to be celebrating 40 years of service and looks forward to proudly continuing this role into the future,” he said.
Since 1972 the squad has grown in size, with its fleet of four rescue trucks carrying some of the latest specialised equipment, and the addition of more highly trained personal.
Tweed District Rescue Squad relies on its volunteers and the support from local business clubs and Local Government to fulfil its role as Tweed Shire’s primary response rescue unit.
“Without this assistance from the community, we would not have been able to reach this milestone or to provide such a valuable service the Tweed Shire can count on. Each and every squad member has helped us in achieving this through their dedication, hard work and bravery over the past four decades,” Jamie Stoddart said.
To mark the anniversary, the squad celebrated at Twin Towns last week.
Members and their partners were joined by NSW VRA officials, past members, members of other emergency services and sponsors.
Presented on the night by VRA Commissioner Russell Ashdown were long service medals to: Mo Sullivan (27 years), captain John Gracie (22 yrs), Graham Benard (20 yrs), Mal Pearse (10 yrs), Kevin Palmer (10 yrs) and posthumously to founding member, Bob Counter, for his 40 years of service.
This is an extraordinary achievement, totalling 129 years of service and commitment to the community.
Secretary Mal Pearse said it was unfortunate that Bob passed away just before this special event as it was largely due to his efforts in helping formulate the squad and his continued involvement that led to its successful development over the past 40 years.
Bob, who passed away in late May, was a frequent visitor to local businesses and media outlets over the years – helping to keep the organisation strong and growing.
