Volunteers praised on International Volunteer Day

Fire and Emergency Services Minister Mark Ryan and Queensland Fire and Emergency Services (QFES) Commissioner Katarina Carroll have praised the efforts of the organisation’s 40,000-plus volunteers on International Volunteer Day today.

“While the work of these volunteers is worthy of praise year-round, what better time to say thank you to our dedicated workforce than on this important day,” Minister Ryan said.

“These volunteers come from all walks of life, working for the Rural Fire Service (RFS), State Emergency Service (SES), Scientific Unit, Fire Investigation and Urban Search and Rescue (USAR).

“From fighting fires on the frontline to searching for someone’s loved ones, working behind the scenes making sure communities are educated, training new members, ensuring responding crews and units are fed and forms are completed, each volunteer is a critical cog in emergency response.”

International Volunteer Day is a celebration across the world to recognise the efforts of those who selflessly give time to their community.

“To each and every volunteer, your dedication, commitment and willingness to sacrifice your time and effort for your community’s safety is sincerely appreciated,” Minister Ryan said.

“I encourage all Queenslanders to show your appreciation for volunteers by sharing a message on the QFES Facebook page (www.facebook.com/QldFireandRescueService) or by tweeting @QldFES.”

Ms Carroll said the often challenging and difficult situations faced by QFES volunteers made their dedication and commitment even more remarkable.

“Our QFES volunteers dedicate hundreds of thousands of hours each year to keeping the community safe,” she said.

“It’s safe to say that without these volunteers, many Queenslanders would really struggle during emergencies.”

Ms Carroll also thanked the families of the QFES volunteer workforce for their continued support. 

“The work that our volunteers undertake would not happen without the incredible support of family and friends,” she said. 

“The sacrifice they make to have loved ones away from home on regular occasions does not go unnoticed and is appreciated by all of us that have had to call on the expertise of emergency services volunteers.”

ENDS

Media contacts

Minister Ryan’s office:                                                  0400 622 433