World-class facility produces more world-class firefighters

Emergency Services Minister Pat Purcell was on hand today to congratulate the latest batch of recruits to graduate from the Queensland Combined Emergency Service Academy’s (QCESA) School of Fire and Rescue Service Training (SFRST).

Thirty new fire-fighters were awarded the Certificate II in Public Safety (Fire fighting and Emergency Operations), qualifying them to join the ranks of the Queensland Fire Rescue Service (QFRS) across the state.

“My wholehearted congratulations go out to each and every one of today’s graduates,” Mr Purcell said.

“They’re now a part of the highly-skilled, dedicated organisation that is the QFRS.”

Mr Purcell said the recruits undertook a 78-day program at the QCESA facility, which is continually being upgraded to ensure recruits can gain realistic practical experience under safe, controlled conditions.

“QCESA offers recruits the best fire rescue education they can get,” he said.

“The program provides them with the knowledge, skills and ability to respond to any type of emergency, whether it be road accident, chemical spill, confined space rescue or any of the other countless possibilities.

“Between the training facilities and the experienced instructors, we know these recruits are well trained and prepared for their new careers with the QFRS.

“Now they’re ready to go out and get even more ‘on-the-job’ skills at fire stations across Queensland, benefiting from the knowledge and professionalism of our more experienced firefighters.

“All of which leads to greater safety for our firefighters on the job and increased safety for the community.”

“In the Emergency Services Department our people are our greatest asset, and it’s a great honour to welcome more members into the fold today.”