Fire and Rescue NSW (FRNSW) has applauded a concept by the Sydney Roosters NRL club to dedicate a match every season to the state’s first responders.
Premier, Chris Minns, and Police Minister, Yasmin Catley, now joined Roosters officials and representatives from FRNSW, the NSW Police Force, NSW Ambulance, the Rural Fire Service, the State Emergency Service, Surf Life Saving Australia, the Volunteer Rescue Association and Marine Rescue to support the launch of the inaugural 'Emergency Services Event' match between Sydney and the Canberra Raiders on Sunday 1 September.
Five members of FRNSW
NSW Police will play a curtain raiser against a team of firefighters from across the nation
NSW Police will play a curtain raiser against a team of firefighters from across the nation. That combined firefighters’ side will feature five members of FRNSW’s 'Phoenix' team, which lost a ‘State of Origin’ encounter against the Queensland Fire Department (QFD) last month, but emerged victors against the Royal Australian Navy in April.
The public is encouraged to visit a host of display stands in the stadium precinct and chat with the emergency services staff on hand.
Efforts of the state’s first responders
Following the curtain raiser, the crowd will be encouraged to take its seats as a POLAIR helicopter enters the arena in a display, highlighting the work of NSW Police, the first service being especially recognized by the concept.
Then, the NRL heavyweights will clash in the 'Emergency Services Event', which pays tribute to the efforts of the state’s first responders tackling emergencies throughout the state.
Fire and Rescue NSW Rugby League Club
Crowd will be encouraged to take its seats as a POLAIR helicopter enters the arena in a display
The President of the Fire and Rescue NSW Rugby League Club and FRNSW Area Commander, Terry Farley, has welcomed the initiative.
“This is a terrific opportunity every year to recognise the great body of work done by all our first responders, whether it be dealing with a house fire, preventing crime, tackling floods or saving someone in the surf,” said Chief Supt Farley.
Emergency services
“All our emergency services have a mission to save lives and protect the community,” said FRNSW Area Commander, Terry Farley, adding “We commend the Sydney Roosters for this ongoing concept which will shine a light on the dedication and hard work of our people.”
Match day schedule 1.45 pm – Gates open to the public 1.55 pm – Curtain raiser kick-off – Combined Firefighters vs NSW Police 3.30 pm – Polair aerial demonstration 4.05 pm – NRL kick-off – Roosters vs Raiders 6.30 pm – NRLW match kick-off – Roosters vs Raiders.