Unsung heroes recognised at Star Care Awards

Capella Ambulance Station Advanced Care Paramedic Kerri-Leigh Russell has been named Paramedic of the Year at the Queensland Ambulance Service (QAS) Commissioner‘s State Star Care Awards.

Police and Community Safety Minister Jack Dempsey said Kerri-Leigh embodied the spirit of an emergency worker who was dedicated to keeping the community safe.  

“This award shows that working in a rural community like Capella is no barrier to career success,” Mr Dempsey said.

“Kerri-Leigh works in a rural and isolated setting and demonstrates a high standard of professionalism not only within her workplace but also the local community.

“She is originally from the Sunshine Coast, and is a perfect example of how working in a rural area can be a very positive and rewarding experience.    

“Kerri-Leigh is not only an asset to the Capella QAS Station but also to the Central Queensland Local Ambulance Service Network and the QAS.”

The Star Care Awards ceremony coincided with Ambulance Week (16-22 September) celebrations and recognised ambulance officers, support staff, volunteers and community members who provide a first class emergency response.

QAS Commissioner Russell Bowles congratulated Paramedic David Bruce of Kingaroy Ambulance Station who was named Patient Transport Officer of the Year.

“David through his impeccable work ethic and personalised patient care, punctuality and efficiency enables patients to arrive safely and on time, despite the distance to their appointments,” Mr Bowles said.

“David ensures that his knowledge of his patient’s condition and current medical status prior to departure is comprehensive, to ensure patients receive the best ongoing care.

“His personal concern for all his patients enables him to excel in the provision of care which enhances the welfare and safety of patients.”

Long Service Medals and National Medals were also presented to staff and volunteers who have dedicated between 10 and 45 years of service.

Star Care Awards Recipients:

Paramedic of the Year - Kerri-Leigh Russell, Capella Ambulance Station, Central Queensland LASN
Patient Transport Officer of the Year- David Bruce, Kingaroy Ambulance Station, Darling Downs LASN
Emergency Medical Dispatcher of the Year – Narelle Smith, Rockhampton Operations Centre
Honorary Ambulance Officer of the Year – David Naylor, Dayboro Ambulance Station Metro North LASN
Station of the Year – South Mackay Ambulance Station, Mackay LASN – Norman Veal OIC accepting award
Local Ambulance Committee Achiever of the Year – Jeanette Bishop, Silkwood LAC, Cairns and Hinterland LASN
Support Officer of the Year – Sally Ozanne, Sunshine Coast LASN
Young Hero of the Year – Brady Mason and Reiley Mason (twin brothers) from Oakey, Darling Downs LASN

[ENDS] 18 September 2013

Media contacts: Alexandra Foley 0418 256 910 or Danny Donald 0439 719 116