QFES staff and volunteers honoured with Australia Day Awards

• 88 Queensland Fire and Emergency Services (QFES) staff and volunteers will be honoured with Australia Day Achievement awards
• Nambour ceremony held today, ceremonies in other regions postponed due to weather preparations

Eighty-eight staff and volunteers from Queensland Fire and Emergency Services (QFES) are to be honoured at Australia Day Achievement Awards ceremonies for their significant contributions to fire and emergency services. 

The awards recognise the ongoing work that is done by QFES personnel, both on the frontline and behind the scenes.

Twelve external organisations will also receive with Australia Day Certificates of Appreciation for assistance during the 2023 bushfire season, exceptional support to SES volunteers and excellent mechanical service on QFES vehicles.  

Quotes attributable to the Minister for Fire and Disaster Recovery Nikki Boyd:

“QFES staff and volunteers dedicate their time to help Queenslanders prepare for and respond to disasters and emergencies,” Minister Boyd said.

“So much so that we have postponed the award ceremonies so QFES personnel can be on-the-ground to support communities during this potential cyclone.

The award winners are helping deliver better emergency services and it’s an honour to recognise their service and dedication on behalf of all Queenslanders.

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

Quotes attributable to QFES Acting Commissioner Stephen Smith:

“The awards recognise achievements such as implementing the Australian Warning System in Queensland, being a Change Champion for the SES transition, outstanding leadership during operations, and dedication to their service,” Acting Commissioner Smith said.

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

“Thank you to QSuper part of Australian Retirement Trust Fund for their ongoing support of the Australia Day Achievement Awards.”

Quotes attributable to Australian Retirement Trust Head of Government and Stakeholder Relationships Erick Cordero:

“Those recognised in the awards are not only talented, but upstanding members of their diverse, and often rural and remote, communities where many of our members live and work.

“Many of our members live rurally and remotely where QFES operates. Through our support we not only honour those on the frontline, but the networks of people who ensure the ongoing safety and support of Queenslanders in times of crisis or emergency.”

Further information:

Nambour’s award ceremony was held today, while the ceremonies in Cairns, Brisbane, Townsville, Beenleigh and Toowoomba have been postponed while QFES personnel undertake severe weather preparations.  

ENDS