Mr Fleming, who is the current squad records administrator at Rylstone Volunteer Rescue Association (VRA), is one of eight VRA Rescue NSW Finalists for the community-nominated awards which recognises all Emergency Services personnel.

Since attending Rylstone Kandos' inaugural meeting (now VRA Rescue NSW) in 1975, Mr Fleming has spent more than 40-years assisting in rescues - both locally and across NSW.

He worked alongside other VRA rescue personnel and assisted at the Thredbo landslide in 1997, the Newcastle Earthquake of 1989 and the 2002 Wee Jasper bushfires.

Over the years he has been president, secretary, captain, deputy-captain and treasurer of the Rylstone VRA which are looking for new members.

These days, the 80-year-old retired accountant can be found every Wednesday night recording the hours of training for the 12 volunteers of the club.

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"I joined because I saw it as a way to help the community and helping others," said Mr Fleming, who has also led the local cubs, written histories of Rylstone Kandos and founded the local museum.

"You try and put the rescues out of your head but you never forget. I can drive anywhere on the roads and you always remember where an accident occurred and what you had to do. You don't remember the exact details, but you remember the overall picture."

Police and Emergency Services Minister David Elliott said this year they received a record number of nominations for the awards which also supports and funds two important Rotary initiatives including emergency and disaster preparedness training.

"This is an appropriate time to pause, reflect and congratulate our emergency services workers and volunteers for their incredible contributions to our state - whether it be a disaster, fire or accident, our community owes them a great deal of gratitude," Mr Elliott said.

"The finalists have more than 600 years of combined service and I thank them all for their exemplary community service."

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