Firefighters pause to remember fallen colleagues

Firefighters will pause today to remember their 50 fallen Queensland colleagues at ceremonies across the state as part of Firefighters’ National Day of Remembrance.

Attending the Brisbane Region Commemorative Service at St Brigid’s Church in Red Hill, Fire and Emergency Services Minister Jo-Ann Miller paid tribute to the brave firefighters who had lost their lives in the line of duty.

“The tenth day of the tenth month is the National Day of Remembrance for fallen firefighters. It’s a chance for all Queenslanders to acknowledge the supreme sacrifice they have made while protecting our community,” Minister Miller said.

“Days like today are a sobering reminder of the danger faced by all career and volunteer firefighters. Without a doubt, their courage makes Queensland a safer place and we should never forget that.”

Minister Miller said firefighters go to great efforts to protect Queenslanders while facing some of the most challenging and hazardous conditions.

“Firefighters begin every shift not knowing what lies ahead. Despite this uncertainty, they continually put themselves in harm’s way to carry out their duties – often without recognition,” Minister Miller said.

“No matter how experienced, skilled, equipped or courageous a firefighter may be, there are times when circumstances beyond their control may result in serious injury or death in the line of duty.

“That’s why I want everyone to take some time today to show their gratitude for our firies’ tireless efforts and to acknowledge the risks and sacrifices they make to keep us all safe.”

Queensland Fire and Emergency Services (QFES) Commissioner Katarina Carroll said commemorative services around the State on Saturday would honour the 50 Queensland firefighters who had tragically lost their lives while on duty since 1877.

“Flags at Queensland fire stations will fly at half mast throughout the day and the firefighting community will pause for a minute’s silence,” Commissioner Carroll said.

“Firefighters consider themselves to be part of a wider national and international firefighting family, and the death of any colleague is felt deeply.

“I know many will also pause today to remember firefighters worldwide who have lost their lives in the course of duty, as well as retired firefighters who are no longer with us.”

The last Queensland firefighter to lose their life in the line of duty was Officer Brendan Dweight Goldsmith of the South Nanango Rural Fire Brigade on 27 February 2012.

The Queensland Fire and Emergency Services Honour Roll, with a full list of names of the state’s 50 fallen firefighters, can be found here: https://www.fire.qld.gov.au/about/HonourRoll.asp

[ENDS] October 10

Media contacts: Brent Davidson (Minister Miller’s Office) – 0438 696 185

QFES Media – 36353310