Buy a red balloon to thank a firefighter

Queenslanders are being encouraged to show their support for urban, auxiliary and rural firefighters, on National Red Balloon Day this Friday. 

Minister for Police, Fire and Emergency Services Jack Dempsey said Friday 28 February marked the first National Red Balloon Day, a new national day of thanks for all firefighters and fire services across Australia. 

“The idea is simple - all Queenslanders are encouraged to fly a red balloon from their letterbox, fence, business window or a ribbon from their car next Friday to let our firefighters know just how much you appreciate their dedication and hard work,” Mr Dempsey said. 

“This is a great opportunity for us all to not only say thanks to firefighters who work so hard to protect the lives and property of Queenslanders, but also raise money for a great cause. 

“In Queensland, all proceeds from the sale of official ‘Thank You Fireys’ balloons will go directly to the Royal Children’s Hospital Burns Unit via the Children’s Hospital Foundation.”  

Mr Dempsey said the Newman Government was working to revitalise the Rural Fire Service of Queensland through the implementation of the Malone Review. 

“The Rural Fire Service in Queensland has suffered from the neglect of successive Labor Governments over more than 20 years.  The Malone Review will ensure the more than 34,000 volunteer rural firefighters have a system which helps them do their job,” he said. 

“The Newman Government is committed to ensuring Queensland has the best Rural Fire Service in the country – a Rural Fire Service Queenslanders can be proud of.” 

Mr Dempsey said our urban, auxiliary and rural firefighters put their lives at risk every day to ensure Queenslanders remained safe and secure. 

“At the beginning of each shift or activation, every firefighter faces uncertainty as to what incident they may be called out to,” he said.  

“This is why it’s so important all Queenslanders take the time this National Red Balloon Day to show their gratitude and acknowledge the risks and sacrifices these fine people make to ensure all of us are safe.” 

Official “Thank You Fireys” red balloons were available for sale at http://nationalredballoonday.com. 

[ENDS] 25 February 2014 

Media Contacts: Nicky Haydon 0427 705 859