28 October 2026

As National Patron of the Australian Rotary Emergency Services Community Awards (AusRESCA), the Governor-General was honoured to host the 2026 National Awards Ceremony in the Bravery Garden at Government House, recognising the courage, compassion and extraordinary commitment of six national finalists from emergency services across the ACT, New South Wales and Victoria.

Her Excellency presented plaques to finalists Patrick Coffey ESM, Trevor Milgate OAM ESM, Mark Molloy, Brendan Vann, Timothy Hassiotis, and Jennifer McGuirk OAM in a moving ceremony shared with family, friends and senior representatives of emergency services organisations. She then presented beautiful glass trophies to winners Mr Trevor Milgate OAM ESM and Superintendent Timothy Hassiortis.

The awards embody Rotary’s guiding principle of “Service Above Self”, acknowledging individuals whose integrity, courage and compassion have made a meaningful difference to the lives of others. The Governor-General praised Mr Milgate’s 50 years of service to the Hunter Community, helping to build and sustain local rescue capability through training and mentoring. She also highlighted the leadership and mentoring of Supt Hassiortis during major international and domestic operations and humanitarian efforts.

The Governor-General thanked Dot Hennessy OAM, Chair of AusRESCA, Grant Hocking ASM, and the many Rotary volunteers who coordinate the awards and continue to amplify the stories of everyday heroes, uniting communities in gratitude for their selfless service and dedication.

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