Dale Bowles remembered by family and friends following tragic death

A veteran firefighter, family man and community stalwart who tragically lost his life while on duty in Moama is being remembered by family, friends and colleagues.

Dale Bowles has been remembered as a wonderful family man after his tragic death on Tuesday putting out a car fire.

A veteran firefighter and beloved family man who lost his life doing the job he dedicated his life to has been fondly remembered as “the most incredible person”.

Dale Bowles, a group captain with NSW Rural Fire Service, died after suffering a medical episode while at a car fire in Moama on Tuesday afternoon.

Fellow firefighters provided first aid until paramedics arrived.

A close family friend of Mr Bowles said he was “the true definition of a family man”.

“He was the most incredible person … (He’s) one of my dad’s best mates”, she said.

Bowles is survived by wife Angela, his three children kids and seven grandchildren.

Dale Bowles has been remembered as “the true definition of a family man”.

Another friend of the Bowles’, Brett Sands, said “What a man! What a tragedy!”.

The NSW Rural Fire Service spoke glowingly about Bowles’ career in a touching tribute.

“Group Captain Bowles was an exemplary member of not just the RFS, but of the community he served,”

“While his loss will be felt deeply by his brigade, district and the wider RFS family, his legacy of leadership, commitment and great capability will continue to inspire those who carry on his work.

“Our thoughts are with his family, friends and RFS colleagues during this difficult time”.

The Womboota and Moama RFS brigades said there were “no words” to express the sadness they felt in the aftermath of Bowles’ tragic death.

Bowles first joined the Womboota Rural Fire Brigade in 2015, having already enjoyed an extensive career with the CFA.

The CFA’s Chief Officer Jason Heffernan said “We are deeply saddened by the loss of NSW Rural Fire Service and former CFA member, Dale Bowles. We send our thoughts and heartfelt condolences to our NSW Rural Fire Service colleagues and our CFA members during this difficult time. We also acknowledge the impact this has on his family, friends and the broader community.”

Dale Bowles was an esteemed member of the NSW Rural Fire Service.

Earlier this year, Group Captain Bowles received a Commissioner’s Commendation for Service in recognition of his work in western NSW throughout the floods of 2022.

He also received the Premier’s Bush Fire Citation in 2020 and the National Emergency Medal.

Bowles’ family are raising money for the NSW Rural Fire Service in his honour.