The achievements of young members of the NSW Rural Fire Service (RFS) have been recognised at the 2025 RFS Youth Awards, held on 18th November at the RFS Headquarters in Sydney Olympic Park.
RFS Commissioner Trent Curtin said the award program is an opportunity to acknowledge the invaluable role young people play in the Service.
The 2025 RFS Youth Award winners are:
Secondary School Cadet Program ‘Cadet of the Year’ – Lauren Wiggett
Lauren participated in the Secondary School Cadet Program at Colo High School. She demonstrated a high degree of leadership and was elected Captain by the group.
Young Volunteer of the Year 12–15 years – Patrick O’Hanlon
Patrick joined the Narrabri Rural Fire Brigade the day he turned 12. He represented the brigade at the RFS state Championships in 2024 and the Australian Fire Cadet Championships in October 2025.
Young Volunteer of the Year 16–25 years – Elliott Simpson
Elliott joined Green Point Brigade at 16. He has attended over 160 callouts, including participating in the 2025 Cyclone Alfred and Taree flood recovery efforts. Elliott aspires to a career in the RFS.
Source: NSW RFS Media Release
