Our purpose and beginnings
RESCA recognises NSW emergency service personnel who live Rotary’s motto of Service Above Self. Established by the Rotary Districts of NSW, the awards celebrate both paid and volunteer members whose compassion, leadership, and community contribution go beyond the call of duty.
History at a glance:
History at a glance:
- Founded by Rotary to honour everyday courage and community impact.
- Statewide program engaging Rotary clubs and emergency services across NSW.
- Annual recognition culminating in an awards dinner and presentation evening.
Service Above Self in action
Community-led recognition
RESCA stands apart because it is driven by the community and spans NSW emergency services.
- Community-nominated: Recognition comes from the people served.
- Statewide and cross-agency: Open to major NSW emergency services.
- Values-driven: Aligned with Rotary’s Service Above Self.
Eligibility at a glance
Eligible nominees include both paid staff and volunteers from recognised NSW emergency services who live or work in NSW. Nominees should demonstrate community contribution, leadership, teamwork, and integrity that reflect Service Above Self.
- Open to frontline and support roles.
- Individual nominations only.
- Nominations must be from the community (not self-nominations).
How judging works
From nomination to celebration:
- Eligibility check by RESCA coordination team.
- Independent judging panel assesses nominations against published criteria.
- Finalists announced ahead of the awards dinner.
- Recipients recognised at the statewide presentation evening.
How RESCA is stewarded
RESCA is delivered by the Rotary Districts of NSW through a state committee and local Rotary clubs, in collaboration with emergency services and sponsoring partners. Together they ensure integrity, transparency, and broad community engagement.
- Rotary governance: District and state committees oversee policy and delivery.
- Agency support: NSW emergency services endorse and promote participation.
- Partners & sponsors: Provide funding and in-kind support that sustain the program.
By the numbers and voices
RESCA’s impact grows each year.
Explore recipients and stories from recent years.
- Numerous nominees recognised across NSW.
- Strong representation from both paid and volunteer roles.
- Community stories highlighting courage, leadership, and teamwork.
Explore recipients and stories from recent years.
Three ways to help
You can help shine a light on outstanding service:
- Nominate someone who embodies Service Above Self.
- Sponsor or partner to amplify recognition.
- Volunteer with Rotary to support the program and event.