Constituency Statement: Richard Hart

Monday 22 June 2026

I rise today to recognise Richard Hart, who has been a volunteer with the NSW State Emergency Service in my electorate of Whitlam for the past 42 years.

I was honoured to attend the NSW SES Southern Illawarra Cluster Awards Ceremony last week, an evening which celebrated the wonderful work carried out by our local SES volunteers.

At this event, Richard Hart was awarded Life Membership of the NSW SES for his extraordinary service over more than four decades.

Richard has acted in a variety of roles at the NSW SES Shellharbour City Unit, and he is currently Deputy Unit Commander.

Richard joined the SES when he was just 18 years old and he epitomises the volunteers who give up so many hours of their time to assist communities before, during and after emergencies – often at risk to their own personal safety.

In fact, Richard ended up in hospital with a dislocated shoulder and damaged wrist following his first call-out with the SES in 1984!

Thankfully, these injuries did not deter him and he has given invaluable service to the southern Illawarra community, and the state of New South Wales, ever since.

Like many SES volunteers, Richard goes about his business quietly, not seeking publicity or attention in any way.

I am delighted to take this opportunity to thank Richard Hart, on behalf of the southern Illawarra community, for helping and protecting us during emergencies for over 40 years.

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