An impressive combined total of 330 years of service was on display at the Narrandera Volunteer Rescue Association of NSW (VRA) medal and certificate presentation on Monday.

The volunteers took a well deserved break to receive recognition for their efforts and long service in the demanding roles they have played over the years.

Dubbo-based VRA Commissioner Mark Gibson paid a special visit to the Narrandera Rescue Squad centre and started proceedings.

Mr Gibson, who joined the Dubbo VRA in 1972 and has received many honours during his long and distinguished career, thanked the volunteers and their partners for their “committed service”.

Member for Cootamundra Steph Cooke presented the volunteers with their awards.

Ms Cooke praised the volunteers’ efforts and commitment.

“It’s been a really difficult year with three floods in the area and the VRA has done a magnificent job all around the state,” she said.

“In what has been an extraordinary year, it’s fantastic to see you out and about and backing the SES.

“You are adaptable and committed to do what has to be done in devastating situations and not many people could step up and attend.

“It takes a very special person to do that and it’s a calling.

“I know I can count on you to step up and help our communities.”

Narrandera Shire Council mayor Neville Kschenka thanked the volunteers on behalf of the community.

“Our community appreciates what you do - it's amazing,” Councillor Kschenka said.

“People like myself and some people in our town don’t know how you manage to do it.

“It’s obviously a passion and you are truly passionate and dedicated people.

“Keep up the good work.”

Three volunteers deserve special mention for 50 years serving as part of the VRA crew.

They were Mark Gibson, Geoff Guymer and Raymond Willett.

Mr Guymer joined the Narrandera Rescue Squad in 1971 and was a founding member of the Coleambally Rescue Squad which was formed in 1976.

Mr Willett joined the Wagga Rescue Squad in 1971 and was awarded life membership in 2003.

VRA Wellbeing Manager and Senior Chaplain Ray Lotty ended the formalities with a touching tribute to his colleagues.

“Being part of the VRA is a lifetime commitment and I applaud each and every one of you,” Mr Lotty said.

“You have other jobs, then you have all the VRA stuff.

“What makes me proud is that you keep getting better and better.”

The award recipients were:

Geoff Guymer (Coleambally): National Medal 1st Clasp and 50yr Clasp and Certificate

Lloyd Stimson (Coleambally): National Medal 1st Clasp

Wayne Heidtmann (Narrandera): National Medal and 15yr Clasp and Certificate

Kevan Boyle (Coleambally): National Medal and 20yr Clasp and Certificate

Richard Rooke (Wagga): National Emergency Medal for bushfire event 2019/20 and 40yr Clasp and Certificate

Raymond Willett (Wagga): National Emergency Medal for bushfire event 2019/20 and 50yr Clasp and Certificate

Samantha Harris (Coleambally) 20yr Clasp and Certificate

Kelly Manley (Narrandera): VRA 10yr Medal

Tammy Riddell (Narrandera): VRA 10yr Medal

Mark Gibson (Dubbo): 50yr Clasp and Certificate

Craig Hodge (Coleambally): 20yr VRA Medal