RURAL FIREFIGHTERS’ EFFORTS RECOGNISED

Six volunteer firefighters from across North Queensland have today been recognised for their years of service to their local rural fire brigade and community.

Premier Anna Bligh and Emergency Services Minister Neil Roberts, in Townsville for the Bligh Government’s 13^th Community Cabinet meeting, presented the firefighters with National Medals, first clasp to the National Medal and Diligent and Ethical Service medals.

“Each of these men have dedicated themselves to protecting life and property in their community, at some risk to themselves, and for that they deserve recognition and our thanks,” Premier Bligh said.

“Between them there is more than 220 years of combined service to their local fire brigade.

“Today’s medal ceremony is just a small token of my government’s appreciation of their efforts.”

Mr Roberts said firefighters were entitled to the National Medal after 15 years of service while a clasp is awarded to a National Medal holder for each additional 10 years of service.

“The Queensland Fire and Rescue Service Diligent and Ethical Service Medal was instituted by the Commissioner to recognise and encourage diligent and ethical service by QFRS members,” Mr Roberts said.

“Our volunteer rural firefighters play a vital role in the community.

“Townsville City is serviced by urban fire brigades but away from the urban areas there are 80 rural fire brigades comprising close to 2,000 Rural Fire Service volunteers and 161 Fire Wardens.”

The medal recipients were:

John Winn – National Medal

Mr. Winn has been a volunteer fire fighter with the Alva Beach Rural Fire Brigade since 1991 as well as being the Firewarden for the district since 1986. During his service he has also held the position of Training Officer for the brigade. Mr. Winn is also a very active member of the Burdekin SES, which he joined in 1988. Currently he is serving as the Deputy Controller.

Graham Thompson – First Clasp to the National Medal

Mr. Thompson has been an active volunteer fire fighter with the Wyangerie Rural Fire Brigade, near Richmond in western Queensland, since 1981. He has held executive positions as Secretary, Treasurer, 3rd Officer and 2nd Officer. He was also the Firewarden in the Wyangarie District from September 2000 to August 2007.

Primo Pilla – Diligent and Ethical Service Medal

Mr. Pilla has been an active volunteer firefighter with the Mount Surround Rural Fire Brigade and Firewarden of the Mount Surround district since 1963. Through his work he has been instrumental in ensuring the safe use of fire for land management over this period. As a volunteer firefighter Mr Pilla has also given his time freely to assist landholders to control fires.

Algie Scarabel – Diligent and Ethical Service Medal

Mr. Scarabel was an active volunteer fire fighter with the Top Crossing Rural Fire Brigade from 1963 to 1976 before joining the Mount Surround Rural Fire Brigade where he has held the positions of firefighter and Secretary.

Guiseppe Girgenti – Diligent and Ethical Service Medal

Mr. Girgenti has been a volunteer fire fighter with the Crystal Creek Rural Fire Brigade since 1969. In conjunction with this service he has been the Firewarden of the Ollera Creek district and has displayed dedication in these roles.

Richard Murray – Diligent and Ethical Service Medal

Mr Murray has been a volunteer firefighter with the Upper Stone Rural Fire Brigade since 1970. He has provided active service as a firefighter throughout the years, supporting his fellow volunteer fire fighters and his community.

Media contact: Premiers (07) 3244 4500, Minister’s office: (07) 3247 8997