- More than 27,000 volunteers are being celebrated for their dedication as part of RFSQ Week 2025.
- RFSQ volunteers and Brigades will be recognised at award ceremonies across the State.
- The Crisafulli Government continues to empower Queensland's 1400+ brigades with more than $36 million for new and replacement trucks and stations.
The Crisafulli Government is extending its heartfelt thanks to the thousands of dedicated rural fire volunteers across the State as Queensland celebrates Rural Fire Service Week.
Rural Fire Service Queensland (RFSQ) Brigades will receive more than $3.8 million worth of appliances as the Crisafulli Government's continued investment into frontline brigades across the State.
The government is also delivering more than $36 million for new and replacement Rural Fire trucks and stations.
RFSQ Week will see rural firefighters across the State recognised for their unwavering commitment to ensuring Queenslanders are prepared and protected when the worst occurs.
Doomadgee Rural Fire Brigade Second Officer David Beil will be recognised as the RFSQ State Volunteer of the Year.
Mr Beil is being acknowledged for his incredible work overcoming the challenges of remoteness to support the community with an innovative and forward-thinking approach.
North Stradbroke Island Rural Fire Brigade volunteer Isaac Brailsford will receive the State Young Volunteer of the Year award.
Mr Brailsford has demonstrated outstanding commitment and dedication as a young volunteer, developing strategies to promote bushfire preparedness, enhance recruitment and strengthen his brigade's connection with the island community.
The spotlight isn't only on individuals, with the strength of teamwork within RFSQ also recognised through the State Brigade of the Year award presented to Thargomindah Rural Fire Brigade.
When record-breaking floods swamped their Outback town, Thargomindah's brigade members showed incredible resilience as they worked to lift spirits and provide support during their community's time of need.
The South Burnett will also mark the official opening of the new Mondure District Rural Fire Brigade station, a modern, purpose-built facility designed to support volunteer operations in the region.
Minister for Fire, Disaster Recovery and Volunteers Ann Leahy said Rural Firies dedicated themselves to keeping Queenslanders safe, and this week was the perfect opportunity to recognise their efforts and extend gratitude for the unwavering commitment to protecting communities.
"The Crisafulli Government acknowledges the vital work of Queensland's Rural Firies every day of the year, and this week provides an important opportunity for us to honour and celebrate the backbone of our bushfire and disaster response," Minister Leahy said.
"Queenslanders right across the State rely on RFSQ volunteers in times of need and it's important to reflect and show our support for the incredible work they do.
"The Crisafulli Government are empowering the more than 27,000 Rural Firie volunteers who continue to make such considerable efforts for their communities."
Queensland Fire Department Commissioner Steve Smith said the State and regional award recipients had demonstrated spirit, resilience and commitment to their role as volunteer firefighters.
"Our devoted RFSQ volunteers never stop working to protect Queenslanders and this week is a chance for us to celebrate the outstanding work they do," Commissioner Smith said.
"They don't do it for praise but each and every one of our RFSQ volunteers and staff deserve our gratitude."
RFSQ Chief Officer Kaylene Jones said each of the award recipients reflected the service's values.
"The winners were nominated for these awards by the brigade members who work alongside them during disasters and deployments," CO Jones said.
"They represent the very best of RFSQ, demonstrating the dedication, resilience, and community spirit that lies at the heart of every rural firefighter."
"Right across Queensland, our RFSQ volunteers and staff have been called upon to respond to many significant events over the past year, often spending time away from loved ones to help those in need.
"This week is a chance to show them that their sacrifice and commitment is appreciated, and I would encourage all Queenslanders to take the time to say thank you to the RFSQ volunteers who help to keep your community safe."
