South East Qld fire and emergency services recognised with Australia Day awards

Three State Emergency Service (SES) members who braved a flooded river to rescue a family stranded in their Gold Coast home have been acknowledged for their daring rescue as part of Australia Day 2018 celebrations.

Minister for Fire and Emergency Services Craig Crawford today (Thursday) congratulated Logan SES team members Jim Ferguson, Chris Holloway and Claire Browning for receiving the prestigious Queensland Fire and Emergency Services (QFES) Commissioner’s Medal for Valour.

They were presented with the award during a Beenleigh ceremony that also honoured 13 other QFES personnel with Australia Day Achievement Medallions.

“I want to thank all award winners for their selflessness, professionalism and dedication,” Mr Crawford said. “They often work under extremely challenging conditions and never do so for reward or accolades.”

Mr Crawford said Mr Ferguson, Mr Holloway and Ms Browning were fitting recipients of the Medal of Valour.

“They received a call in the early hours of March 31 last year to rescue a family trapped in the Luscombe house by rising floodwater in the aftermath of Tropical Cyclone Debbie,” Mr Crawford said.

“The three launched a flood boat and battled a raging Albert River and dodged trees and powerlines to reach the family. They made their way inside the house and rescued a mother, her children and their grandfather, and two dogs.

“Minutes after everyone was safely on the boat, the torrent tore the house from its foundations and swept it downstream. The efforts of Jim, Chris and Claire saved the lives of that family and they are truly deserving of their award today.”

Member for Macalister Melissa McMahon said the Commissioner’s Medal for Valour was the premier award for bravery from the QFES Commissioner.

“This was a challenging and extremely dangerous rescue carried out in darkness and in confronting conditions,” Ms McMahon said.

“Jim, Chris and Claire navigated treacherous waters and worked against the clock to save the family. Their efforts are testament to their dedication and commitment to helping Queenslanders in need.”

Australia Day Achievement Medallions - presented to those who go above and beyond their normal duties – were presented to another three SES members who operated flood boats during weather events south of Brisbane.

Jimboomba Group Leader Craig Guy and Logan East’s Deputy Group Leader Jane McKay and Team Leader Belinda Quaill were cited for their skill and professionalism operating the craft.

They were among six Rural Fire Service (RFS) and seven State Emergency Service (SES) members from areas including the Lockyer Valley, the Gold Coast hinterland and Logan to receive medallions during the ceremony.

QFES Commissioner Katarina Carroll congratulated the winners and their significant contribution to the community.

“They are leaders in their field, highly respected and a credit to QFES,” Ms Carroll said.

“While their backgrounds and experiences may vary, they all share one common goal: devoting their time and expertise to community safety and serving Queenslanders in times of need.

“It is important to acknowledge the achievements of our workforce and we are proud of their ongoing efforts to protect Queensland communities.”

ENDS

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