It's rare for an employee to have a forty-plus year record of service. Add to that record the service involves danger, stress, crisis and emergencies.
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Longtime Canowindra Fire captain Bill Paul can claim all.
He has now earned his third clasp recognising diligent long service - presented every ten years after the initial earning of the National Medal, earned at the fifteen year milestone.
The three clasps and medal he has now received total 45 years of service as a firefighter with Fire and Rescue NSW.
Fire and Rescue NSW Inspector Bob Mey presented Mr Paul with his clasp in a ceremony recently.
"Bill has given 45 years of long and outstanding service to the people in the Canowindra district. This is an amazing achievement and Bill is to be congratulated for his work with FRNSW.
"Also presented was retained fire fighter Matthew Dunn with Fire and Rescue NSWs Long Service and Good Conduct medal after 10 years of service.
"Congratulations to both Captain Bill Paul and Fire Fighter Matthew Dunn for outstanding service to FRNSW and the people they serve."
Bill Paul joined Fire and Rescue NSW (FRNSW) at Canowindra as a Retained Firefighter in 1969 and less than 10 years later he was appointed Captain, a position which he continues to hold.
Only two years ago, Mr Paul was the recipient of an Australian Fire Service Medal in the Queen's Birthday Honours List in June 2013.
He is renowned throughout rural New South Wales as a keen advocate for operational training programs, particularly the Firefighting Championships held regularly throughout regional New South Wales.
His crew at Canowindra is recognised as a well rehearsed and professional emergency service, able to respond readily to deal with all types of emergencies and natural disasters.
Throughout his distinguished career Mr Paul has been a vital member of the emergency response team at Canowindra, responding to many building and bushfires, road accidents, chemical spills, and other emergencies.
He has also taken a leading role in delivering fire safety education to local schools, community and professional groups, volunteering many hours to what he sees as a vital, proactive community role.
He is recognised throughout the Canowindra community, not just as a firefighter but also as a hard working businessman, and a dedicated member of numerous sporting and community groups.
He is highly respected by his peers in FRNSW and other Canowindra emergency services for his outstanding dedication to the community, particularly his Brigade.
