Newdegate salutes regional emergency services

They are the people who defend us, protect us and rush to our aid when we are most vulnerable, but they are not often front of our minds.

Emergency Services in the Bush was the theme of the 47th Newdegate Machinery Field Days, held earlier this month with more than 13,000 people through the gates.

Newdegate Machinery Field Days president Craig Newman said it was fitting the mostly volunteer-run event chose to pay tribute to the often life-saving emergency services personnel given 95 per cent in WA were volunteers.

“The emergency services were terrific,” he said.

“I’d really like to thank all of the visitors for coming and especially the exhibitors for putting on a good show.

“Also, for all of the committee and volunteers that did a great job.”

It was Mr Newman’s first year at the helm of the important event, which attracted hundreds of exhibitors from machinery, farm business, food and beverage, lifestyle and much more.

In opening the event, Department of Fire and Emergency Services Commissioner Darren Klemm thanked Newdegate Field Days for the theme.

“WA is very fortunate to have 26,000-plus selfless and ded-icated volunteers who all share a common goal to protect our community,” he said.

Lake Grace Shire president Jeanette De Landgraft said emergency services paid a vital role in regional WA.

“Without our fire brigades, ambulance officers and police, our communities wouldn’t feel safe, protected or cared for,” she said.