Emergency Services workers honoured at Australia Day ceremony

More than 200 fire fighters, paramedics, volunteers, project and administrative staff of the Department of Emergency Services are being honoured for their commitment and outstanding service in ceremonies across the state to mark Australia Day.

Each year the Department of Emergency Services (DES) presents Australia Day Achievement Awards to recognise excellence among its staff and volunteers – including front-line, support and administrative personnel.

In a ceremony today at Parliament House in Brisbane, Emergency Services Minister Pat Purcell presented DES Australia Day Achievement Awards to staff and volunteers from the south-east region. Other ceremonies are being held around the state today and tomorrow (January 24 and 25).

Mr Purcell said the Department’s annual Australia Day awards had become a proud tradition to acknowledge the men and women who dedicated themselves to helping others during disasters or emergencies.

“Every year almost a million Queenslanders call on emergency services staff and volunteers in a time of need. More than ever before there is an awareness among the public of the important role played by highly-trained emergency services personnel in responding to natural and man-made disasters.

“Disasters such as Tropical Cyclone Larry demonstrate the high level of preparedness, professionalism and teamwork of Emergency Services staff and volunteers who respond fast and effectively to even the most difficult situations.

“I’m sure that those affected by such disasters are reassured by the confidence and pride displayed by our staff and volunteers as they go about their work.”

Mr Purcell said that not all the award recipients worked at the ‘front line’ when a disaster occurred.

“It’s important to recognise that our operational abilities are underpinned by high standards of performance in other areas of the department.

“Today’s recipients include those involved in financial management, asset management, human resources and information technology, all of which are vital in providing the foundations for a strong and effective organisation.”

Mr Purcell said those receiving awards had been identified as making a significant contribution to the purpose and effectiveness of the Department of Emergency Services.

“Your example, and the example of other recipients in previous years, sets the standard for this organisation – a standard recognised as world-class.”

Mr Purcell said it was also important to acknowledge the support provided and sacrifices often made by the families and friends of the award recipients and other emergency services staff and volunteers.

“Ensuring the safety of Queenslanders is not limited to working office hours. It is the support of families and friends that assists emergency services personnel to do such great work each and every day,” Mr Purcell concluded.

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