And this month, they are celebrating a big milestone.

The Cessnock District Rescue - an affiliate of the NSW Volunteer Rescue Association Inc - was formed four decades ago.

"It's actually been 41 years because we were 40 years last year but we are celebrating now," Deputy captain and founding member Trevor Milgate said

"It was formed back in 1978, when we established ourselves with a second hand vehicle. A lot has changed since then, particularly with membership."

Since its inception, the squad has continued as a vital pillar of the community and been on the scene of any flood, fire, rescue, serious motor vehicle accident or land search.

The rescue squad, located on South Avenue, has about 20 members on the roster now. So, how do you celebrate such an achievement?

Well, the squad is combining their birthday celebrations with the NSW Volunteer Rescue Association's mid year conference.

"We put a bid into a state organisation. We are hosting the mid-year conference so all the other squads will come here and we have an official opening," Mr Milgate said. "This is the third time we've hosted one .. it's a really good time."

The conference see more than 50 members from across the state visit the city, and will be held at Cessnock Leagues Club on Saturday.