When the 2019-20 bushfires tore through the South Coast, sending thousands fleeing north, Dr Neil Moss was heading in the opposite direction. 

Seconded by the Department of Primary Industries, he drove into the heart of the disaster in Bega, through thick smoke and chaos, to help dairy farmers whose livelihoods had been left in ruins.

This week, the Kiama Heights resident's extraordinary service has been recognised with the National Emergency Medal.

For two exhausting weeks, Dr Moss, senior consultant and co-director at Scibus worked up to 14-hour days, assessing the damage, ensuring farmers were safe and coordinating urgent supplies. Power was out, roads were blocked and cattle were stranded with no food or water.

With the support of Local Land Services, DPI and agricultural industry bodies, he helped secure fuel, generators and fodder, ensuring every affected farm had feed within days.

His work did not end there. Recognising that recovery needed structure, he brought together key agricultural groups, including the DPI, Dairy Australia, NSW Farmers, Local Land Services and Bega Cheese, to map out a long-term plan.

By the time he left, industry and farmers had a clear path forward, knowing they were not alone in the struggle to rebuild.

Even after the fires, Dr Moss continued his work, supporting flood-hit dairy farms in 2021 and 2022 and leading a major risk analysis project to help farmers prepare for future climate related disasters.

Through it all, he has remained deeply aware of the emotional toll disasters take, urging people to listen to those who have lived through them.

"You can see everything that needs to be done when you walk onto these farms," he said.

“But the most important thing is to take the time to listen. Often, letting people tell their story is just as important as fixing the problem."

The National Emergency Medal, established in 2011, honours Australians who have rendered significant service during times of crisis. Dr Moss joins a remarkable group of people who have stepped up in the darkest moments to help their communities.