Emergency workers show Australian spirit

Queensland’s emergency workers, staff and volunteers have been recognised, during the Australia Day Achievement Awards at Kedron today, for the work they do helping keep Queenslanders safe.

Assistant Minister for Emergency Volunteers Ted Malone presented more than 25 Queensland Fire and Emergency Services officers and volunteers with awards for their outstanding work serving on Queensland’s frontline.

“Today’s winners were recognised for a wide range of different skills,” Mr Malone said. 

“North Stradbroke Island State Emergency Service (SES) Group Leader Ben Holder received his award for his work with social media and weather warning services, while Deception Bay SES Group’s Kirsty Laili was recognised for her consistent and professional training coordination. 

“Other award winners included QFES Compliance and Prosecution manager David Tucker, who was praised for his work in providing safer accommodation for at-risk residents residing in public housing.” 

An additional 10 awards were presented to staff from the Public Safety Business Agency recognising the outstanding work they do in supporting frontline services. 

Mr Malone said the awards acknowledged the dedication, hard work and sacrifice emergency service staff and volunteers had made for their community. 

“The Newman Government is committed to providing support for our volunteers and emergency workers to ensure they can focus on doing the job they do the best; protecting the lives of Queenslanders,” he said. 

“Frontline emergency services are currently being revitalised as promised at the election, with the implementation of a number of recommendations from the Keelty Review into Police and Community Safety, the first review of its kind in more than 20 years.” 

QFES Commissioner Lee Johnson thanked the award winners for their commitment. 

“Their dedication is of huge benefit to the community. Being a volunteer emergency worker is challenging but rewarding task,” Mr Johnson said. 

“SES members and rural firefighters often undertake tasks that the rest of the community would hesitate to carry out. 

“They fight fires, search for the missing, help paramedics reach patients and keep the community calm and informed during a disaster. 

“Volunteer efforts like these are a true representation of the Australian spirit and so it is fitting that we recognise them.” 

QSuper was again the major sponsor of the Awards and CEO Rosemary Vilgan congratulated the nominees and award winners. 

“It is an honour for QSuper to be involved once again with these awards, which recognise some of Queensland’s best frontline workers and the tireless efforts they put in day-in and day-out,” Ms Vilgan said. 

“From everyone at QSuper, I congratulate the nominees and winners on being leaders in their field and in their communities and thank them for their hard work and sacrifice.” 

[ENDS] 21 January 2014 

Media Contacts: Lea Emery 0417 226 114