Firefighers efforts recognised

The work of Queensland Fire and Rescue Service (QFRS) firefighters during the 2011 Brisbane floods has been acknowledged by The Royale Humane Society of Australia, with 24 members receiving awards.

The annual awards are presented to those who have risked their lives to save others and are judged by the society’s board of directors.

Minister for Police and Community Safety Jack Dempsey congratulated the winning firefighters on their efforts.

“This year, firefighters will receive seven silver medals, 12 bronze medals and three certificates of merit,” Mr Dempsey said.

“Beenleigh Station Officer Russel Von Nida and firefighter Brad Hindmarsh have also been awarded the Clarke Gold Medal, an award judges present to the most outstanding case of bravery during the year.

“These firefighters showed outstanding courage during the Grantham floods, boarding an Australian Defence Force helicopter to search for stranded residents.

“Despite difficult and trying conditions, Mr Von Nida and Mr Hindmarsh were winched down to rescue civilians multiple times.”

QFRS Commissioner Lee Johnson said the medals were well deserved.

“Busy periods and the relentless summer of disasters in 2010/2011 showcased how highly trained our officers are,” Mr Johnson said.

“Firefighters are there to help protect life and property in times of emergency, but they also do a lot of work behind the scenes to help ensure the safety of the community.

“Awards like these acknowledge their hard work and invaluable contribution.”

QFRS award winners include station officers Mark Stephenson, Philip Paff, Peter McCarron, Lawrence Cullen, Shane Rankine, Ian Bland and Bradley Mills, firefighters Nathan Chadwick, Kerry Weir, Geoffrey Dixon, Mark Meier, Andrew Neil, David Crighton, John Ryan, Matthew Kendall, Scott Frame, Brendan Ashby, Andrew Hopkins, Kevin Graham, Rodney Hawken, Todd Ryan and telecommunications supervisor Ben Sutherland.

The winners received their medals in a ceremony at Government House today. Clarke Gold Medal winners Mr Von Nida and Mr Hindmarsh will receive their awards in a ceremony at Canberra on July 12.

[ENDS] 8 July 2012

Media Contacts: Danny Donald 0439 719 116 or Sam Smallbone 0417 226 114