New Emu Park ambulance station officially opened

Emergency Services Minister Pat Purcell and Member for Keppel Paul Hoolihan today officially opened the new Emu Park ambulance station.

Mr Purcell said the new $1.1 million station would provide hard-working paramedics with a state-of-the-art, purpose-built facility, and thanked Mr Hoolihan for his ongoing commitment to emergency services in the region.

Mr Hoolihan said the new station would be a great boost for the local community and for paramedics.

“This new station is of a standard that meets the requirements of a 21^st century service. It provides the community with a modern ambulance facility to serve the growing local population,” Mr Hoolihan said.

“Our paramedics do amazing work, and it’s no surprise that they were recently voted the most trusted profession in the country. They play a vital role in the community, and it’s essential they have the best equipment, facilities and training possible.

“The new facility is an example of the Queensland Government’s commitment to ensuring our ambulance service is well resourced to continue its great work.”

At the ceremony, Mr Purcell also officially presented a new Mercedes ‘Sprinter’ ambulance vehicle for use at the Yeppoon station. The new vehicle is worth about $110,000 and is fitted with the latest pre-hospital care equipment.

Also at the ceremony, two Queensland Ambulance Service (QAS) staff received medals for long and dedicated service.

“I believe that it is vitally important to recognise long and faithful service, for it is the quality of our people that makes the QAS a quality organisation,” Mr Purcell said.

“The officers honoured today each thoroughly deserve recognition. Their years of experience is something that cannot be replaced, and the QAS is a better organisation thanks to their dedication and service,” Mr Purcell said.

Media contacts: Tim Shipstone 07 3247 8194, 0409 620 571;
Daniel Landon 07 3247 8992, 0437 837 976.

Medal recipients

The National Medal recognises diligent long service in organisations that protect life and property at some risk to their members. Recipients are entitled to the National Medal after 15 years of service and a Clasp is awarded to a National Medal after the completion of each additional 10 years of service.

National Medal – 15 years service

Gordon Acutt – Paramedic Officer, Rockhampton.

National Medal – 1^st Clasp – 25 years service

James Rimmer – Communications Officer, Rockhampton.