Minister for Fire and Emergency Services Craig Crawford has paid tribute on Yellow Ribbon Day to volunteer Rural Fire Service (RFS) fighters across Queensland who put their lives on the line to protect people, property and communities.
Mr Crawford today met with RFS volunteers outside the Townsville Convention Centre, where Parliament is being held this week.
"Whether our 33,000 volunteer firies are on the frontline or promoting safety through community education, they play such an important role, working tirelessly right across our state," Mr Crawford said.
"Yellow Ribbon Day is a special day reserved to say a big thank you to those who give up their time to keep Queenslanders safe.
"This week also marks the 70th anniversary of the Rural Fire Service in Queensland, so I encourage everyone to support their local brigade and RFS volunteers by wearing a yellow ribbon today.
"The men and women who put on the yellow coat and drive the yellow trucks are there for all of us when we need them most, whether it be during bushfires, floods or cyclones.
"RFS volunteers fight fires, conduct fire prevention activities, including hazard reduction burns, and can be deployed to an incident anywhere in the state if required.
"Another great example of the diverse skill set of our RFS Volunteers was highlighted so very recently in the devastating floods in Townsville and across the remote communities of North West Qld.
"Hundreds of RFS volunteers met the call and gave their time in clean-up operations which lasted over several weeks. RFS is so much more than bushfires, they are a true asset to our community.
"I say a big thank you to all our volunteers for the work they do and the contribution they make.
"More volunteers are always needed - being a volunteer means making a difference in your community and learning new skills that last a lifetime."
