New recruits inducted into fire service

Minister for Fire and Emergency Services, Mark Ryan, joined Queensland Fire and Emergency Services Commissioner Greg Leach to induct 12 firefighter recruits into its ranks today at a ceremony in Townsville.

Minister Ryan thanked the newest firefighters for their decision to become members of Queensland’s frontline responders.

“Through their roles they will be called on to respond to house fires, car crashes, bushfires and many other types of emergencies or disasters, providing assistance when and where it is most needed,” Minister Ryan said.

“QFES expects the highest standards from its firefighters and these graduates have shown they are dedicated and committed to gaining the skills and knowledge necessary to perform this important role.

“Queenslanders can rest assured our newest firefighters are ready to answer the call for help.”

Commissioner Leach was pleased to welcome the recruits and said they will be posted all over Queensland.

“The recruit training course is designed to reflect the broad range of services firefighters provide and recreates real life situations to give them a solid foundation of practical skills and experiences,” Commissioner Leach said.

“QFES has a proud history of working with the people of Queensland, and these recruits will continue to provide the vital fire and emergency services our state needs.

“I wish our graduating recruits all the best and am confident they will uphold QFES’ values of respect, integrity, courage, loyalty and trust.”

Member for Townsville Scott Stewart said today’s induction demonstrated the Palaszczuk Government’s commitment to community safety.

“We are investing in the people and the infrastructure that our frontline responders and the community rely upon in difficult times,” Mr Stewart said.

“Today we celebrate the graduation of the newest firefighters in the state.

“As a government we are backing our emergency services including with a record $900 million QFES budget which will help fund a replacement of the South Townsville fire and rescue station.”

Member for Mundingburra Les Walker said the government was investing in 357 extra firefighters across Queensland, and it was great to see 145 of those had already been recruited.

“Today’s graduation is another step along the way to delivering that commitment,” Mr Walker said.

“The Palaszczuk Government is making record investments in community safety, and training new firefighters here in Townsville is very much part of that.”

“Investing in frontline services is important in what the Palaszczuk Government does.”

Member for Thuringowa Aaron Harper said the more firefighters, the better for Townsville and all of Queensland.

“Up here in the North Queensland we know from experience the vital role that our wonderful people on the frontline play when tough times strike,” Mr Harper said.

“Firefighters not only fight fires, they also perform swift water rescue operations and save lives which is very important during cyclones and floods which Townsville has experienced.

“To those graduating today, I say thank you for choosing to serve your fellow Queenslanders.”

Media contacts

Minister Ryan’s Office: 3035 8300

QFES Media: 3635 3310