Boost for local firefighters

Emergency Services Minister Pat Purcell continued his Rockhampton tour this afternoon, handing over new appliances to North Rockhampton Fire Station and Cooberrie Rural Fire Brigade, and also presenting service awards to firefighters.

Mr Purcell said the new 2007 Mercedes Atego Type 3 pumper truck for North Rockhampton Fire Stationhas already been a welcome addition.

“This new appliance will be at the forefront of Queensland Fire and Rescue Service (QFRS) response in this region,” Mr Purcell said.

“Its arrival reflects the Beattie Government’s commitment to protecting the health and well-being of all Queenslanders. The new appliance is valued at around $510,000, and is fully equipped with road accident rescue capabilities.

“It’s unfortunate that a lot of QRFS work these days involves responding to motor vehicle incidents. As horrible as those incidents are, it’s a priority of my Department to ensure our people have the best resources to handle any situation, and this vehicle helps deliver that capability.”

The Mercedes vehicle has been with the North Rockhampton station since June 5.

Mr Purcell also handed over a fully fitted Isuzu Medium Attack appliance to the Cooberrie Rural Fire Brigade, worth nearly $90,000.

“The Cooberrie RFB is based around the northern outskirts of Yeppoon where they respond to frequent wildfires, and they also provide support of other rural and urban responses in the area,” he said.

“It’s a pleasure to present this new vehicle to some hardworking volunteers.”

The Minister also acknowledged the long service of several firefighters in the region.

Bob Kelly (now retired) was Captain at Blackwater Fire Station, and Mr Purcell presented him with his National Medal for 15 years service.

A number of Rural Fire Brigade volunteers were also on hand to receive National Medals and clasps (see list below).

“Our people are our greatest asset, and I’d like to congratulate all our staff and volunteers on making Queensland, and in particular this region, a safer place,” Mr Purcell said.

Rural Fire Service volunteers National Medal recipients:

- Jack Mattei (Woodbury RFB) – National Medal

- Robert Barlow (Tanby RFB) – 2^nd Clasp

- Barry Jensen (Keppel Sands RFB) – 2^nd Clasp

- Evan Clifton (Woodbury RFB) – National Medal

- Bruce Johnston (Rosedale RFB) – National Medal

- Edward Boardman (Wartburg RFB) – National Medal

- Robert Paskevicius (Wartburg RFB) – National Medal

- Dorothy Ramm (Raglan RFB) – National Medal

- Leslie Harding (Mount Maurice) – National Medal

Media contact: Brendan Connell 07 3247 8992, 0437 837 976
Tim Shipstone 07 3247 8194, 0409 620 571.