The medals were presented to each of the crew, including Park Ranger and crew trainer Jarron McInnes, by Western Bay Mayor Ross Paterson at a special ceremony at the Park attended also by Principal Rural Fire Officer Barry Low and Chairman of the Western Bay Moana Rural Fire Authority Peter Clark.

Ross congratulated the volunteers for their community spirit and dedication to become professionally trained to serve their communities in emergencies.

The International Year of the Volunteer began in 2001 and the United Nations officially designated 2011 as the tenth anniversary.

The United Fire Brigades Association, together with the New Zealand Fire Service Commission, have marked the occasion with the presentation of the medal to all eligible volunteers.

The medal is awarded to all volunteer members of rural fire forces who served during 2011.