Department of Sustainability and the Environment firefighters Steven Kadar and Katie Peters were among a crew battling the blaze in the Buckland Valley on February 13, 2013, when a large Alpine ash tree crashed onto their slip-on vehicle, killing the pair instantly.

Their families travelled to Canberra on Friday to receive medallions honouring their sacrifice.

Farrer MP Sussan Ley represented the federal government at the ceremony and presented the families with their medallions.

She said Australia had been ravaged by fire, battered by storms and faced the threat of terror in the three years since the last ceremony was held.

The Harrietville fire lasted 55 days and burned 37,000 hectares of state forest.

“To the parents, wives, husbands, partners, children and friends here today - we honour the commitment and sacrifice of your loved ones – something that will always be remembered,” Ms Ley said.

“I say this to those emergency services personnel … it is your bravery, your professionalism and your determination that keeps our communities safe. Across the nation, you play a vital role in helping Australians to prepare, withstand and recover from disasters.”

The MP said selfless acts were worthy of recognition.

“When faced with danger, people often react by trying to avoid harm, however the men and women in our emergency services routinely run head-first into danger and actively put their lives on the line to help others,” she said.

‎Australasian Fire and Emergency Service Authorities chief executive Stuart Ellis said it was unfortunate people died in emergencies, but it was important to honour their service and hoped it provided a level of comfort.

“Our people are from local community, supporting, protecting and helping those communities,” he said.

“It is of greatest importance honouring those who have died on operational duty … it’s an incredible important occasion to our sector and to the families and friends who have lost a loved one.”