Young Queenslanders take up emergency services cadet program

More than 600 young Queenslanders are being introduced to emergency services training through the Queensland Government’s Emergency Services Cadet Program.

Emergency Services Minister Neil Roberts said the Department of Emergency Services committed more than $1.4 million per annum to the program, which supported 49 cadet groups across the State.

“The program is supported by more than 300 adult volunteer members who provide supervision, training and support,” Mr Roberts said.

“Through the cadetship program, young Queenslanders can learn valuable life skills, develop personal strengths and are provided with positive opportunities for participation in local communities.”

“The program was founded in 1994 and it is available to young people who have commenced Year 8 of their secondary education and are up to 16 years of age.”

The program offers skills development in areas, including:
·first aid
·bushcraft and camping
·boating safety
·fire prevention and awareness
·map reading and navigation
·search and rescue techniques
·leadership
·team building
·communications

Last year, eight cadets joined the State Emergency Service and two cadets joined the Queensland Fire and Rescue Service

The Emergency Services Cadet Program incorporates the Queensland Ambulance Service, the Queensland Fire and Rescue Service and Emergency Management Queensland State Emergency Service.

“The program is free to join and there are no ongoing fees. Uniforms and working clothes are supplied free of charge.”

The list of cadet groups by region are published on the Department of Emergency Services website at www.emergency.qld.gov.au/cadets/groups.

For further information contact the local regional offices of the Department of Emergency Services or www.emergency.qld.gov.au/cadets/.

3 June 2008
Media contact: Kirby Anderson 3247 8194 or 0418 197 350