Ambulance Week: QAS awards Southeast region’s best ambulance officers

The Queensland Ambulance Service (QAS) today acknowledged its best-performing officers at Southeast Region’s ‘Star Care Awards’.

Emergency Services Minister Neil Roberts, QAS Commissioner David Melville and South Eastern Region Assistant Commissioner Jayne Barnes congratulated the recipients of the annual awards in a ceremony at the Beenleigh Community Centre.

“Ipswich Intensive Care Paramedic Carmen Waqanaceva was awarded Paramedic of the Year for her positive attitude, caring nature, professionalism and commitment to QAS, as well as her integrity and respect for her peers,” Mr Roberts said.

Debbie Gray was awarded Emergency Medical Dispatcher of the Year for her commitment to patient service, accurate record keeping, excellent rapport with stakeholders and for her helpful approach to her peers.

“Ferdinand Holt, who works from Robina Hospital, was named Patient Transport Officer of the Year for the region for his commitment to achieving a high level of patient satisfaction, his proactive approach, and respect and consideration for patients and his peers,” Mr Melville said.

“Toogoolawah Ambulance Station was recognised as Station of the Year for its great work environment, supportive atmosphere, patient focus and its staff commitment to safety practices,” Ms Barnes said.

Awards were also presented to: Rathdowney’s Lyn Richter – Honorary Ambulance officer of the Year; the Gold Coast’s Dianne Hayson – Local Ambulance Committee (LAC) Achiever of the Year; and Susan Dunn – Support Officer of the Year.

Mr Roberts congratulated all ambulance officers, and said the Bligh Government was committed to providing them with the resources needed to maintain their high standard of performance.

“Queensland’s ambulance officers are among the best in the country.

“The Bligh Government’s playing its part by allocating record levels of funding to the QAS. This financial year the QAS budget has increased by $53.1 million to $455.7 million.

“That means the QAS will recruit 250 additional ambulance officers and buy 145 new ambulances this financial year.

“This builds on the 255 extra officers and 140 new vehicles funded in 2007-08.”

Media Contact: Brendan Connell (Minister’s Office) - 3247 8194

Emergency Services Media - 3247 8186