The Toowoomba region received a major boost today after new fire trucks were officially handed over in Millmerran and Pittsworth by Fire and Emergency Services Minister Craig Crawford.
Mr Crawford also hosted an awards ceremony during which Queensland Fire and Emergency Services (QFES) Fire Communications Officer Wendy De Vries received the QFES Medal.
“To receive the QFES Medal, an officer must have shown a high level of commitment, ethics, integrity and diligence,” Mr Crawford said.
“In her 12 years with QFES, Wendy has shown all this and so much more, including compassion, empathy and understanding.
“Our Fire Communications Officers are the first point of contact in disasters and emergencies and play a crucial role in offering advice and dispatching emergency response.
“Wendy has done an outstanding job and I congratulate her on receiving this award.”
Ms De Vries said working as a Fire Communications Officer was made all the more enjoyable by her peers.
“The people I work with are great and the most rewarding part of the job is being able to assure callers that I can help them and initiate the first activation for response,” Ms De Vries said.
QFES Assistant Commissioner Darryl King said it was an honour to see Ms De Vries specially recognised by the Minister.
“It is always a privilege to celebrate any QFES personnel who go above and beyond in their duties,” Mr King said.
Mr Crawford also visited Millmerran and Pittsworth to deliver a $540,000 new fire truck to each of their Fire and Rescue Stations.
“Our firefighters are responsible for helping their communities in so many ways, from providing education about fire plans and being prepared for bushfire season to firefighting and road accident rescues,” he said.
“These new vehicles, fitted out with state-of-the-art technology, mean our crews in this region are now even better placed to support their communities.
“By fitting these appliances with the latest technology, our firefighters are equipped with the best tools to help the community in times of need.
“Pittsworth and Millmerran residents can rest assured knowing our firies are prepared to respond to all types of disasters.”
