Ambulance Week: QAS awards Brisbane’s best ambulance officers

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

Emergency Services Minister Neil Roberts, QAS Commissioner David Melville and Brisbane Region Assistant Commissioner Leo McNamara congratulated recipients of the annual awards in a ceremony at Carina Ambulance Station.

“Chris Nicholls was named Emergency Medical Dispatcher of the Year and was also awarded the State-level award in the same category. Chris was recognised for his proactive approach, excellent rapport with stakeholders and exceptional communication skills,” Mr Roberts said.

Graceville’s Robert Blumke was awarded the Young Hero of the Year award for actions he took after discovering a man slumped over the steering wheel of his running car.

“Robert demonstrated maturity and courage in assessing the situation and securing the vehicle before removing the man from the car. Robert then performed mouth-to-mouth on the man until paramedics arrived. In addition to the award, Robert received a Commissioner’s Commendation for his actions,” Mr Melville said.

Carina Ambulance Station paramedic Lee Charles was named Paramedic of the Year for his professionalism and commitment to QAS, as well as his willingness to maintain and improve the service QAS provides to his local community.

“Capalaba-based Anthony Galea was named Patient Transport Officer of the Year for his commitment to achieving a high level of patient satisfaction, as well as his positive, courteous and helpful approach,” Mr McNamara said.

“Eatons Hill Ambulance Station was recognised as Station of the Year for its great work environment, supportive atmosphere and patient focus.”

Awards were also presented to: Samford’s Bevan Mieni – Honorary Ambulance Officer of the Year; Mt Gravatt’s Alan Burchill – Local Ambulance Committee (LAC) Achiever of the Year (regional and state awards); and Ann Bombardieri – Support Officer of the Year (regional and state awards).

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