Les Threlfo is a retired policeman who for several years has been Controller of the Snowy River State Emergency Service (SES), operating out of Jindabyne. The SES are a volunteer organisation which responds to emergencies of any sort. The Snowy River chapter covers the high country of southern NSW as well as Lake Jindabyne and surrounds, areas prone to extreme weather conditions in both Winter and Summer, ranging from white-out blizzards to massive bushfires.

Les is renowned as an expert and compassionate trainer of young members of the organisation. He is also active in many community based programs and in promoting the work of the SES to the broader community. Les receives the Torch-Bearer Award not only for himself and his tireless dedicated service, but also on behalf of the Snowy River State Emergency Service and also the SES across the entire State of New South Wales.