Honours SES volunteer who died in line of duty

Ian was a resident of Bass Hill when passed away in 2010 while deployed to Ulladulla.
NSW SES Commissioner Carlene York APM attended the service at the National Emergency Service Memorial in Canberra last week and said it was important to acknowledge the supreme sacrifices of volunteers.
“The NSW SES is made up of special people who are willing to go to the aid of community members in need during emergencies,” she said.
“Today is an important day to honour their devotion to duty and also support their family members during the most difficult of circumstances.”
Ian’s wife Carole said she joined the NSW SES with her husband Ian 18 years ago and still continued to serve.
“It was a beautiful ceremony, even after all these years,” she said.
“The support of our unit and key people in the SES, like chaplain Steve Hall, help you get through.
“I didn’t think I’d be able to volunteer after Ian passed away, but I found it was like my second family – the friendship and support makes it all worthwhile.
“Ian loved the SES, and he would spend every spare moment he could volunteering.”
Bankstown Unit Commander David Niven said Ian was a true gentleman.
“He was always supportive of anyone in need and would often be seen with a cup of tea chatting with others ensuring they knew that there was and still is an amazing organisation with amazing people doing amazing things to support and empower the community to become more resilient,” he said.