Community Service Award for Inverell VRA member

It came as a complete surprise to Frank Fleming when he was presented with a Premier’s Community Service Award in Inverell last week.
His family and Inverell Volunteer Rescue Association colleagues organised for Member for Northern Tablelands Richard Torbay to present the Award at Inverell Council without the recipient knowing.
“I’m totally amazed,” the volunteer said when the Award was presented to recognise his 28 year contribution as a foundation VRA member.
A mechanic, Mr Fleming joined the VRA when it was formed in Inverell in 1979 and his skills have been in demand since that time to maintain the Association’s vehicles and facilities.
He is currently the IVRA Captain and Training officer and over the last 28 years he has contributed to all aspects of the organisation from fundraising to training, operations and being on call 24/7.
His citation reads that he is “is an inspiration to our community as demonstrated by his enthusiasm, commitment and dedication which equate to Service above Self”.
“He is certainly a very worthy recipient of the Award,” Mr Torbay said.
“Outstanding service like this is something we should always acknowledge and celebrate.
“People like Frank don’t make a lot of fuss about what they do but just keep contributing to their community and giving valuable service.
“Frank has earned the respect and admiration of his colleagues and the gratitude of the community for his work and I was pleased to present him with this well earned Award.”