Top honour on Australia Day for Fire Officer

A long-serving Queensland Fire and Emergency Services (QFES) Fire Officer has been honoured with a prestigious medal as part of the 2021 Australia Day ceremonies.

Minister for Fire and Emergency Service Mark Ryan congratulated Executive Manager Corey Bock, who received the Australian Fire Service Medal (AFSM) today in recognition of his service to the organisation and Queensland communities.

“To receive an AFSM, an officer must have demonstrated a high level of dedication, professionalism and willingness to go above and beyond what is expected of them in their role,” Mr Ryan said.

“In his 28 years with QFES, Corey has shown all these attributes and more, so it is fantastic to see national recognition of his efforts. 

“I’d like to congratulate Corey on this award and look forward to seeing his work continue to benefit Queensland communities for years to come.”

Since joining QFES in 1992, Mr Bock has served in a range of roles across multiple services, from frontline operations to strategic governance.

As a senior officer in the Rural Fire Service (RFS), Mr Bock played an integral role in leading volunteer support and engagement in south east Queensland, whilst also supporting partner organisations and communities with bushfire management activities.

QFES Commissioner Greg Leach said Mr Bock was held in high regard by his peers for his leadership in fire management, fire investigations, community engagement and knowledge management.

“For more than 20 years, Corey has been on the front line of many significant fire and emergency disaster events, including the Grantham floods and Black Summer bushfires,” Mr Leach said.

“He has been a trailblazer within the organisation, serving as the first Ministerial Liaison Officer from the RFS, representing QFES across all facets of government strategy and relations.

“In addition to his permanent role, Corey is also an experienced RFS volunteer. He embodies the QFES values of respect, integrity and courage, and leads by example.

“Corey’s commitment to sharing his specialist bushfire management knowledge will help ensure QFES can continue to deliver a world-class fire service into the future."

Media contacts 

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

QFES Media: (07) 3635 3310