24 March 2021

Ms TRISH DOYLE (Blue Mountains)—I had the great honour and privilege of joining in the NSW Local Woman of the Year Awards 2021, with a highlight of the event being the acknowledgment of the courage and resilience of Blue Mountains woman, Beth Raines. Beth, you're a champion. The work you do for and with our community is incredible and the way in which you are able to guide those in fear through a crisis, as a First Responder, is a true reflection of the selfless, inspiring leader that you are. In the Black Summer Gospers Mountain fire, Beth Raines - Rural Fire Service Captain of the Mount Wilson/ Mount Irvine Brigade - lost her own home whilst out fighting to save the lives and homes of others. I cannot imagine the horror of this experience, nor the sadness of losing not just a house, but a home steeped in family history. Beth, from our community to you, we thank you for the dedication you show to us all. You do us so proud, not only for what you achieve through the important work that you do, but as a humble, compassionate, remarkable human being.