Mr REPACHOLI (Hunter) (13:31): 

Graeme O'Brien joined the Westbrook rural fire brigade in 1971. In 1976 Graeme was elected to the position of secretary/treasurer, which he held until 1988, when he was elected captain of the brigade. During his time as captain, he actively responded to many incidents, including structural fires, motor vehicle accidents, and bush and grass fires. Graeme held the position until 2001, when he was appointed a group officer within the Hunter Valley team, a position he was re-elected to until he retired in August 2019. His dedication to service and wealth of local knowledge has seen him recognised as one of the most valued group captains, having been awarded the New South Wales Rural Fire Service Long Service Medal, the clasp for 50 years service; the National Medal, first and second clasps; and the Premier's Bushfire Emergency Citation.

Graeme has devoted the past 52 years to the New South Wales Rural Fire Service, both as a member of Westbrook, Darlington and Bulga rural fire brigades and as a group captain with the Hunter Valley team. I congratulate him on his retirement as group captain. But, far from being done, Graeme continues to be a valued member of the Bulga Rural Fire Brigade.

The Hunter thanks you for your service.