Community

Rotary Emergency Services Community Awards (RESCA)

Rotary Districts of ACT, NSW & Victoria

2 Mar – 30 Apr 2026

Free Event

What…

The Rotary Emergency Services Community Awards (RESCA) recognise emergency service personnel who have gone above and beyond their call of duty, embodying Rotary’s motto of ‘Service Above Self’.

RESCA is a community-nominated award, meaning recipients are selected based on their reputation and contributions as seen through the eyes of their local communities. The awards are presented currently in New South Wales, the ACT and Victoria.

The awards were founded by Rotarians to highlight extraordinary community contributions. The Awards have grown from state initiatives into a nationally recognised program with the Governor General Her Excellency the Honourable Ms Sam Mostyn AC as patron and host of the National Emergency Service Community Awards. Today, the Awards amplify stories of everyday heroes, from rural brigades to metropolitan response teams.

The panel looks for:

  • Outstanding community impact and service beyond the call of duty
  • Alignment with Rotary’s motto: Service Above Self
  • Examples that demonstrate integrity, leadership and positive outcomes

Some restrictions apply (e.g. conflicts of interest or incomplete submissions)

For further information regarding the state awards and the national ceremony or to nominate someone please visit www.rescawards.org.au/index.html

Where…

Nominations are open to current or recently serving personnel and volunteers in eligible emergency services across ACT, NSW and Victoria.

More information…

Who can nominate?

Any member of the public can nominate an emergency service personnel member who has demonstrated outstanding service to the community.

What evidence should you include?

Provide specific examples of impact, endorsements where possible, and links or documents that support achievements.

When are winners announced?

Finalists are typically announced in July, with winners celebrated at the national ceremony in August.