Queensland’s emergency services are in good hands if the calibre of the latest two groups of cadets is anything to go by.
Fire and Emergency Services Minister Craig Crawford has launched the State’s 16th and 17th Emergency Services Cadet Units in Lucinda and Charters Towers.
“Between the two groups we have almost 40 young people who have been part of the establishment of the new units and it’s absolutely fantastic to see,” Mr Crawford.
“The program is delivered by the Policy Citizens Youth Clubs (PCYC) with Queensland’s emergency services, including Queensland Fire and Emergency Services.
“One of the cornerstones of Palaszczuk Government policy is keeping Queenslanders safe and we are absolutely committed to ensuring we do everything in our power, across all our emergency services, to make sure that happens.
“These young men and women have already impressed me with their discipline, their confidence and the respect they show to not only their peers but also the adults they interacted with at the launch ceremonies.
“Their enthusiasm for volunteering means that they will have the opportunity of terrific careers, including firefighters, ambulance and police officers.
“They’ll also have support from the Red Cross, Surf Life Saving Queensland, Australian Volunteer Coast Guard and Volunteer Marine Rescue Association Queensland.
“I can think of few better ways to immerse yourself in the best culture and training on offer in Queensland than through an Emergency Services Cadet Unite.”
Queensland Fire and Emergency Services Commissioner Katarina Carroll said PCYC Queensland and QFES would work to increase the number of Cadet units to 25 by 2021 as part of a service agreement.
“QFES has been committed to this program since 2014, and the ESC program has gone from strength to strength in that time with Emergency Services Cadets now being given the opportunity to earn a nationally accredited Certificate II in Public Safety,” Ms Carroll said.
“We are working with the PCYC Queensland to support existing units and spread the reach of the program into new communities to ensure we can give children a great start in life.
“This program changes lives for the better, with cadets reporting higher levels of self-confidence, increased rates of secure employment and greater engagement with family and school.”
