Boost for Rural Fire Service training and support in Wide Bay region

The Queensland Fire and Rescue Service has appointed a dedicated officer to provide training and support for rural fire brigades in the Maryborough region.

Emergency Services Minister Neil Roberts said the appointment of Neil Davidson (Maryborough), a Brigade Training and Support Officer (BTSO) would further assist rural fire service volunteers across the region.

“There are about 2000 rural fire service volunteers in the Maryborough region,” Mr Roberts said.

“Wayne Ford (Maryborough) and Dion Skinner (Bundaberg) are filling existing BTSO position established in the region last year. Based on the number of volunteers in our region, the Rural Fire Service has decided to appoint a second officer to assist local brigades.”

“They provide training and operational support and help to maximise the capability of our hardworking volunteer firefighters in the Rural Fire Service.”

“These officers will give our Rural Fire Service volunteers the support needed to help protect people and property from the hazards of fire in rural areas.”

Mr Roberts said the appointment of the latest Maryborough officer was one of six additional BTSO positions across the State. The other officers were appointed to Caloundra, Toowoomba, Caboolture and two to Townsville.

Last year, an initial 11 BTSOs were made to Roma, Cairns, Bundaberg, Toowoomba, Caloundra, Ipswich, Charters Towers, Rockhampton, Mackay, Innisfail as well as Maryborough.

Mr Roberts said the appointment of BTSO officers was part of the Queensland Government’s record funding for the Rural Fire Service. Funding for the Rural Fire Service this financial year was a record $24.3 million, with initiatives to improve training, equipment and vehicles for the volunteer rural fire brigades.

16 May 2008
Media contact: Kirby Anderson 3247 8194 or 0418 197 350