Ninety-seven Queensland Fire and Emergency Services staff and volunteers are to be presented with Australia Day Achievement Awards for performing exceptional work, above and beyond the normal course of duty.
After presentations were postponed in January due to COVID-19, emergency services personnel will be honoured in a series of official ceremonies, beginning today, in Toowoomba, Rockhampton, Mackay, Townsville, Brisbane, Maryborough, Beenleigh and Cairns.
Seventeen external organisations and individuals who provided outstanding support to QFES will be presented Australia Day Certificates of Appreciation.
Minister for Fire and Emergency Services Mark Ryan MP, in Maryborough today for one of the state-wide award presentations, said QFES had provided outstanding fire and emergency service response over the past year.
"In 2021, and again in 2022, Queenslanders faced more than their fair share of disasters, with storms, bushfires, floods and COVID-19 ever-present in our communities.
"Through it all, QFES made a significant contribution to building connected and capable communities.
"Congratulations to all of our award recipients for supporting their communities when they need it most."
Member for Maryborough Bruce Saunders said the people of Maryborough always worked together in disaster times.
"The QFES volunteers are typical of that 'can do' attitude,'' Mr Saunders said.
"We have had some very difficult times of late and QFES often leads the way in helping to get people back on their feet.
"It is very comforting for our community to know that these dedicated volunteers are here to help when needed.''
QFES Commissioner Greg Leach said the Australia Day Achievement Awards were a proud tradition at QFES.
"The award recipients come from many areas across QFES, and while their achievements are wide and varied, they share a common goal of working together to build safe and resilient communities," Commissioner Leach said.
"Whether on the frontline or behind the scenes, Fire and Rescue Service firefighters, Rural Fire Service and State Emergency Service volunteers, and corporate staff play an important role.
"Each award recipient has demonstrated QFES' core values of respect, integrity, courage, loyalty and trust. While our winners will insist "it's all part of the job," it's important we recognise and appreciate those who have exceeded expectations in a challenging year.''
