QFES high achiever recognised with prestigious medal

The experience and dedication of one of Queensland Fire and Emergency Services’ (QFES) finest has been recognised in this year’s Australia Day Honours.

Far Northern Region Executive Manager of Emergency Management Cheryl-Lee Fitzgerald was awarded the Emergency Service Medal (ESM) for her tireless commitment to helping communities prepare for and recover from emergencies.

Fire and Emergency Services Minister Mark Ryan said Ms Fitzgerald played a vital role in the delivery and improvement of QFES emergency management capabilities.

“The ESM is one of the highest awards that can be awarded to emergency services personnel, and recognises Cheryl-Lee’s years of dedicated service,” Mr Ryan said.

“Her ongoing contributions to improving how we prevent, prepare for, respond to and recover from emergencies have made a significant contribution to community safety.

“Cheryl-Lee is a leader in her field, and QFES is very fortunate to have her within their ranks.

“I want to take this opportunity to congratulate Cheryl-Lee on this award and sincerely thank her for her continued service to her colleagues, peers and the wider Queensland community.”

QFES Commissioner Greg Leach said the award recognised Ms Fitzgerald’s outstanding commitment and service to the state.

“Throughout her career with QFES, Cheryl-Lee has worked across 21 local government areas and 14 Indigenous communities,” Mr Leach said.

“More recently, she has worked with a number of remote Indigenous communities to create effective COVID-19 pandemic preparation and response plans, which has helped ensure the safety of these communities.

“She has been instrumental in improving the resilience of not only communities in Far North Queensland, but right across the state through the design and implementation of emergency management framework and strategy.

“Cheryl-Lee’s leadership and dedication to QFES, and to the wider community, has been exemplary and I congratulate her on this most prestigious award.”

The Emergency Services Medal recognises distinguished service by members of emergency services across Australia, and people who are involved in emergency management, training or education.

Media contacts 

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

QFES Media: (07) 3635 3310