The Australian Fire Service Medal (AFSM) is awarded by the Governor General on both Australia Day and Queens Birthday and recognises distinguished service by members of Australian fire services.
Congratulations to those many firefighters across the nation that have been awarded today.
But it’s been two years (and four missed opportunities) since a Victorian forest firefighter has been honoured. (AKA those wearing the green overalls – DEECA /FFMV/ ParksVic/ VicForests/ Melb Water, etc).
Some say these awards don’t matter, but I don’t agree. I reckon it must hurt that, once again, forest firefighters have been overlooked and no one is deemed worthy.
The CFA and Fire Rescue Victoria (FRV) run a separate process of nomination and seven AFSMs were awarded this year.
A spreadsheet of previous forest firefighter recipients is attached.
Victoria’s Forests & Bushfire Heritage 