Bellingen Shire Celebrates Thank a First Responder Day - 11 June

Published on 13 June 2025

Photo: Mayor Cr. Steve Allan and Cr. Jo Brotherton with our local SES services.

Bellingen Shire Council marked Thank a First Responder Day with a heartfelt community celebration on Wednesday 11 June, honouring the dedication and bravery of the region’s emergency services.

Held across the Shire, the event brought together members of NSW SES, Fire & Rescue NSW, NSW RFS, NSW Ambulance, and NSW Police, who turned out in force, vehicles in tow, to engage with the public. Community members were invited to explore emergency response vehicles, try out rescue tools, and learn vital skills like administering CPR on training mannequins.

Photo: Local SES show Cr. Jo Brotherton the equipment they use during emergency operations.

Photo: local NSW Fire and Rescue crew

Photo: NSW Fire & Rescue crew at Maam Gaduying Park in Bellingen

Mayor Cr. Steve Allan addressed attendees, recognising the vital role first responders play across the Shire. “We’re all gathered here today for First Responders Day, and what an important day it is. It gives our community a chance to say thank you,” he said. “Whether you’re a volunteer or a paid first responder, the service you provide is invaluable.”

The day held particular significance in the wake of two major flood events since March, which saw local emergency crews respond swiftly to road closures, rescues, and ongoing community recovery efforts.

“The sense of security and reassurance you bring, especially in times of crisis, can’t be overstated,” the Mayor continued. “You put the safety of others ahead of your own, often in the most desperate circumstances, and that makes a real difference.”

Photo: Councillors and Council Staff talking to Urunga locals at ShireSpeaks 

The event was held just before ShireSpeaks, a Council pop up event that gives the community the opportunity to speak with councillors and council staff about local issues. It also coincided with a Community Services Stalls Day hosted in Maam Gaduying Park in Bellingen, which ran from 12pm to 3pm and featured a range of health and wellbeing providers, as well as the Service NSW bus.

Photo: Service Stall Day – Maam Gaduying Park in Bellingen

Attendees were treated to a free BBQ lunch and the chance to meet and thank local emergency service workers in person while connecting with health and wellbeing providers of the Mid North coast. “I often say this, and I truly mean it,” Mayor Allan added. “The volunteer work you do as first responders is one of the most tangible expressions of the Anzac spirit in peacetime Australia. You carry that spirit forward, and for that, I thank each and every one of you.”

With sunshine overhead, a sizzling BBQ, and plenty of community connection, the day was a meaningful expression of gratitude, and a reminder of the strength and service of our first responders for all they do.