MINISTER WELCOMES NEW RURAL SUPPORT STAFF

Emergency Services Minister Neil Roberts has welcomed a new batch of Queensland Fire and Rescue Service (QFRS) staff, who will streamline communications between Rural and Urban firefighters.

Mr Roberts addressed the inaugural intake of 11 Brigade Training and Support Officers (BTSO) at their graduation, after an intensive 15 week induction program.

“The BTSO’s were appointed in early 2007 as part of the Rural Operations Enhancement Package,” Mr Roberts said.

“They will be working to provide a conduit between area offices and our rural volunteers in the field, building on the great working relationship between the two.

“Through their input into training and operations, we will be able to fully maximise the capabilities of our hardworking volunteer firefighters in the Rural Fire Service.”

The success of the initiative represents a significant enhancement to the Rural Fire Brigade, and is backed by the Government’s $52 million commitment over five years to train and equip volunteers.

Mr Roberts said that apart from coursework, recruits also received advanced training covering command, leadership, management and area-specific operations.

Of the 11 new BTSO’s, six have taken part in volunteer firefighter services, while others come from varied backgrounds, including industry and the Australian Defence Force.

“This Department relies heavily on our volunteers, and that is particularly true in the Rural Fire Service,” he said.

“This initiative is about supplying them with the support needed to protect people and property from the hazards of fire in Rural areas.

“I congratulate all the graduates on a job well done, and I wish them every success in their new roles.”

Media contact: Tim Shipstone 07 3247 8194, 0409 620 571.

Brendan Connell 07 3247 8992, 0437 837 976