The National Medal is awarded to individuals who have served for 15 years, with extra clasps awarded for each additional 10-year period.

Geoff attended his first fire in early 1989 in Canberra, and then furthered his experience fighting fires in Queensland before joining the NPWS in 1996 where he is currently the Senior Field Supervisor in Myall Lakes National Park.

The awards were presented by Rural Fire Service Commissioner Phil Koperberg and National Parks Director General, Lisa Corbyn.

"There are over 900 NPWS bush fire management personnel who often miss important family gatherings when called on to defend the community from fire," said Ms Corbyn.

"Their contributions vary from roles of active suppression on the fire line, to remote area fire fighting, to coordination and logistical support.

"The recipients of the National Medal come from across NSW, and are involved in fighting fires in and around National Parks and reserves from the Sydney Basin to the Northern Rivers, the Snowy Mountains and everywhere in between," explained Ms Corbyn.

Geoff has been involved in most of the major bushfires in the local area over the past 10 years and enjoys working with the local Rural Fire Service Brigades.

He has made many friends with the crews over this time and appreciates being able to work with them.

In an uncanny coincidence, on the same week, both Geoff and his wife Carey were awarded the new Australian Defence Medal for service in the Australian Defence Force.

The Australian Defence Medal has been established to recognise Australian Defence Force Regular and Reserve personnel who have demonstrated their commitment and contribution to the nation by serving for an initial enlistment period.

Geoff is a veteran of 20 years service in the Royal Australian Navy and his wife Carey served for 11 years.

Geoff and Carey met whilst both serving in the Navy and last year celebrated their 20th wedding anniversary.