Our people - Garry Casey

Throughout his time with NTES, Garry completed extensive training across a wide range of emergency disciplines. His qualifications include Air Observer, Instructional Techniques, the Australasian Inter-Service Incident Management System (AIIMS), storm and water damage operations, and more. He also brings specialist rescue knowledge in areas such as basic rescue, shore-based rescue, vertical rescue, and structural collapse rescue.

With his wealth of experience, Garry has not only responded to emergencies but also played a vital role in training others. As both an instructor and inductor, he has delivered numerous courses, including general rescue, flood boat operations, vertical rescue, four-wheel drive (4x4), first aid, and urban search and rescue (USAR). His ability to share knowledge and mentor new volunteers has left a lasting impact on countless members of the NTES.

Garry’s dedication has seen him participate in several major events. He was deployed to Perth for the MH370 search operation, assisted during the 2018 Daly River floods, took part in the Wangi Falls land search in 2021, and supported multiple cyclone responses. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Garry stepped up once again and helped to establish the NT’s COVID Incident Control Centre and later volunteering as an Operations Officer.

In recognition of his outstanding service, Garry has received numerous awards and honours. These include the NTES 5 Year Medal, a 10 Year Service Certificate, and a Certificate of Recognition from the NT Council. He was nominated for the Emergency Response/Crime Prevention Volunteer of the Year and honoured with the Lifetime Volunteer Award in 2021. In 2013, he received the Chief Minister’s Medal at the Volunteer of the Year Awards.

Most recently, Garry was awarded the COVID Medal in 2024 and appointed a Member of the Order of Australia (AM)—a prestigious honour recognising his significant service to the community through emergency response.