New firefighter training facility to benefit North Queensland

The Palaszczuk Government has given fire and emergency services in the state’s north a major boost with the opening of a new training centre for firefighters to hone their skills.

Situated at the Woodlands Fire Station, Fire Minister Jo-Ann Miller opened the new state-of-the-art facility with the Minister Assisting the Premier on North Queensland Coralee O’Rourke in Townsville today.

“The Palaszczuk Labor Government is committed to boosting frontline services right across North Queensland – and this facility will ensure our firies are able to train and upskill locally. It represents a government investment of around $470,000 for the region,” Minister Miller said.

“Firefighters will be able to undertake specialised training in a range of disciplines here, including vertical rescue, confined space rescue, road crash rescue and responding to hazardous materials.

“The North Queensland community, as well as firefighters, stand to benefit from this new facility. The skills reinforced here will save lives.”

Minister assisting the Premier on North Queensland Coralee O’Rourke said the Northern Region Training Facility would give local crews the opportunity to both practice their skills and learn new techniques.

“Whether it’s freeing a motorist trapped in a vehicle after a car crash or rescuing a worker from a confined space in an industrial accident, our firefighters receive world-class training to respond to emergencies,” Minister O’Rourke said.

“This facility will also increase the training opportunities for both full-time and auxiliary firefighters across the Northern Region.

“The facility supports the professional development of firefighters and enhances Queensland Fire and Emergency Services’ operational capability.”

Member for Townsville Scott Stewart said the facility would provide a scenario-based training environment which can be reconfigured to challenge trainees.

“A purpose-built classroom enables firefighters to master the theory before putting their practical skills to the test,” Mr Stewart said.

“Real life scenarios are replicated, including firefighters cutting open car wrecks, performing rope rescues and searching rooms filled with smoke while thermal imaging cameras are used to monitor their techniques.”

During the official opening, Minister Miller took the opportunity to present three QFES employees with National Medals in recognition of 15 years of diligent service.

“I congratulate Fire Communications Officer Beryl Amos, Magnetic Island Auxiliary Lieutenant Peter Young and Magnetic Island Retired Auxiliary Captain Michael Tamlyn for their outstanding contribution to the community,” Minister Miller said.

“Their dedication and professionalism exemplify the work Queensland Fire and Emergency Services is doing to keep the community safe.”

[ENDS] 18 June 2015

Minister Miller’s Office (Brent Davidson in Townsville): 0438 696 185