QFES staff and volunteers recognised at Australia Day Achievement Awards

Dedicated staff and volunteers from the Queensland Fire and Emergency Services (QFES) were recognised at the Northern Region 2021 Australia Day Achievement Awards held in Townsville today.

Minister for Fire and Emergency Services Mark Ryan, who presented the awards at the event, said QFES had provided outstanding fire and emergency services over the past year.

“From fighting devastating bushfires, helping Queenslanders recover from severe storms, rescuing people from home fires and floodwater, to providing crucial support during COVID-19 operations, QFES members have been out in force to protect our communities,” Mr Ryan said.

“These awards are an opportunity to acknowledge the outstanding commitment and achievements of those who have gone above and beyond.”

As part of the awards ceremony, nine QFES members received the 2021 Australia Day Achievement Award. There were a number of regional awards presented on the day as well.

“Members of the Fire and Rescue Service, Rural Fire Service and State Emergency Service are always at the ready to respond to a range of disasters,” Mr Ryan said.

“Those receiving awards today have made major contributions to building safe and resilient communities.

“It’s an honour to recognise their service and dedication on behalf of all Queenslanders.”

“We also recognised individuals and organisations with Australia Day Appreciation Certificates who have supported QFES to provide services to Queensland.

“These awards allow us to publicly thank the people who have devoted themselves to supporting Queenslanders to prevent, prepare for, respond to and recover from disasters.

“Congratulations to all of our award recipients for supporting our communities when they need it most.”

QFES Commissioner Greg Leach congratulated the award recipients for their outstanding work with Queensland communities.

“The award recipients have exemplified QFES’ core values of respect, integrity, courage, loyalty and trust,” Mr Leach said.

“Thanks to their outstanding achievements, Queenslanders can rest assured they are in safe hands when disaster strikes.

“I would like to thank our major, long-term sponsor, QSuper, for their ongoing support of QFES and the Australia Day Achievement Awards.

“I am immensely proud of all our award winners today and thank them for their contributions over the past 12 months.”

QSuper Chief Executive Officer Michael Pennisi said the awards recognised the incredible response by frontline workers to challenges in 2020.

“Difficult times often bring out the best in people, and each of the nominees and award recipients of the Australia Day Achievement Awards is a testament to that belief,” Mr Pennisi said.

“QSuper's support for the staff and volunteers of QFES is unwavering and we are continually inspired by their work to keep our communities safe.”

Media contacts 

Minister Ryan’s Office: Ph: (07) 3035 8300

QFES Media: (07) 3635 3310