Queenslanders urged to support dedicated volunteers during Rural Fire Service Week

Fire and Emergency Services Minister Craig Crawford today (Friday) urged Queenslanders to get behind thousands of hard-working volunteers during Rural Fire Service Week.

Mr Crawford – who will officially open a $3 million Fire and Emergency Services facility in Charleville tomorrow servicing both the Fire and Rescue Service and Rural Fire Brigade – said the RFS had a proud history in Queensland.

“The RFS is fortunate to have thousands of volunteers who willingly give up their time to serve and protect the community,” Mr Crawford said.

“A lot of these volunteers – particularly our long-serving members – have played a massive part in making the RFS what it is today.

“Some volunteers will be presented with clasps for either 40 or 50 years of service this week. This is a massive achievement and I congratulate those people for their dedication and unwavering support for both the RFS and their community.”

Mr Crawford said RFS Week, which runs from Sunday through to June 9, was a chance to say “thank you” to every RFS member.

“As a former Victorian volunteer firefighter, I know members of the RFS perform their work not for recognition or reward, they do it because they love it,” he said.

“Many take time away from their jobs and loved ones to help their community when it’s needed most, so it’s only fitting we all take some time to thank them.

“During RFS Week, many brigades across the state will open their doors to the community and I encourage everyone to show their support by attending their local brigade open day.

“Committing time and skills to volunteer in your community is an honourable act and while many volunteers don’t expect recognition, it’s important we show them that their commitment doesn’t go unnoticed.”

QFES Commissioner Katarina Carroll said residents could go one step further in supporting their local brigade by ensuring they, along with their family, were bushfire prepared.

“This is the ideal time to have a chat to your local brigade about what you and your family should be doing to make sure you are prepared for bushfire season,” she said.

“Our rural firefighters are a great source of knowledge and are more than willing to answer any questions you may have around bushfire season preparation including fire mitigation activities, Permits to Light Fire and Bushfire Survival Plans.

“A bushfire can strike any time so it’s important to have these discussions now so you are prepared if a fire impacts your property.”

Ms Carroll also encouraged anyone looking to make a difference to consider joining the RFS.

For further information about local RFS open days contact your local brigade or area office: https://ruralfire.qld.gov.au/Pages/contact_us.aspx

ENDS

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