NSW SES Young Volunteer of the Year honoured in State Parliament

NSW Premier Chris Minns presented Josh with his award, recognising his outstanding service and selfless community contribution.

Josh was set to receive his award at NSW State Emergency Service (SES) headquarters in Wollongong on Wednesday 21 May, but in the early hours of the morning he was called to Taree to respond to the Mid-North Coast floods. 

In Taree, Josh spent two days assisting with flood evacuations and performing reconnaissance missions by deploying and retrieving vessels for all emergency service agencies.

Now 23, Josh Hurst has been a member of the NSW SES since he was 16, rising to hold several roles including Deputy Unit Commander, Emergency Officer and Volunteer Procurement Officer.

Working as a full-time electrician, Josh spends 20 to 40 hours a week volunteering for the SES. 

Josh’s record of service includes deployments to major incidents including the Eugowra floods in November 2022, where he played a vital role in life-saving flood rescue missions.

The NSW SES Young Volunteer of the Year Award is presented annually to a member aged 16–25 who has demonstrated exceptional engagement with training and operational activities.  

To join the NSW SES, please visit: https://www.ses.nsw.gov.au/volunteer 

Premier Chris Minns said: 

“I’d like to thank Josh for his tireless dedication to the SES and for selflessly supporting NSW communities. 

“It says everything about Josh that his award had to be rescheduled because he was responding to floods. 

“Josh’s commitment to serving others and his exceptional leadership skills make him a deserving award recipient.” 

Minister for Emergency Services Jihad Dib said: 

“Through tireless efforts and unwavering passion for helping others, Josh has positively impacted the lives of those affected by emergencies and natural disasters. 

“Josh is a skilled and committed member of the SES, and it’s tremendous to recognise him for his courage, selflessness and service to NSW. 

“Although we’re recognising Josh today, we acknowledge the many emergency service members and volunteers who worked tirelessly to keep Mid North Coast communities safe under difficult circumstances over the past several weeks.” 

NSW SES Commissioner Mike Wassing said:  

“Josh represents the future of the NSW SES. He leads with compassion, courage and commitment, and continually steps up to serve his community. 

“His dedication to learning, mentoring others and taking on responsibility at such a young age is truly exceptional. The NSW SES is proud to recognise him as this the 2024 Young Volunteer of the Year. 

“Josh is an inspiration to all volunteers. He supports everybody and gives up countless hours to serve his community. His willingness to help in any situation and constantly improve shows what a great role model he is.”