Mr McPaul's was one of eight people recognised at a memorial service at Mrs Macquarie's Chair on Sunday, including three others who lost their lives fighting the 'Black Summer' bushfires and four volunteers who died as a result of illnesses associated with their work.

Mr McPaul, aged 28, died in late December when the truck on which he was being carried overturned when it was hit by a fire tornado near Jingellic.

The crash also injured two other Rural Fire Service Morven brigade firefighters.

He is survived by his wife Megan, who was expecting a child at the time of his death.

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Mr McPaul studied animal science at Charles Sturt University in Wagga and played and coached basketball in the city.

Police and Emergency Services Minister David Elliott said it was important to remember the 102 volunteers who paid the ultimate sacrifice protecting their community.

"The men and women who volunteer put service above self, often prioritising the safety of their community above their own," he said.

"Our state owes them all a debt of gratitude.

"NSW tragically lost eight beloved volunteers, Geoffrey Keaton, Andrew O'Dwyer, Samuel McPaul, Colin Burns, Michael Maria, Phillip Bell, Ian Long and Robert Panitz.

"The whole community mourns with their families."

The Sydney memorial and its annual service now recognises 102 fallen volunteers from the NSW Rural Fire Service, NSW State Emergency Service, Marine Rescue NSW and the NSW Volunteer Rescue Association.