Queensland’s firefighters have been recognised for their dedication and commitment as part of International Firefighters’ Day celebrations today (May 4).
Minister for Fire and Emergency Services Craig Crawford thanked Queensland Fire and Emergency Services’ (QFES) firefighters past and present for their service to the community.
“On International Firefighters’ Day we acknowledge firefighters across the globe for their bravery and sacrifice,” Mr Crawford said.
“They don’t do this job for the accolades, but they are among the most deserving to be recognised for the work they do in what are often trying and stressful situations.
“Time and again they put the health and safety of others ahead of their own and run toward danger to protect those in need.”
Mr Crawford said recent severe weather in Queensland and abroad highlighted the important role of firefighters.
“Queensland’s firefighters were on the frontline during the state’s summer of disasters, from severe bushfires in late 2018 to the devastating floods in the north and north west earlier this year,” he said.
“They displayed unwavering dedication to safeguard lives and property.”
Mr Crawford said Queensland’s firefighters have also been regularly called upon to assist further afield.
“It is testament to the skills and expertise of our firefighters that they were last year deployed to Tasmania, Victoria, Canada and the United States to combat severe bushfires,” he said.
“And since 2008 the UN has classified QFES’ Disaster Assistance Response Team as an International Search and Rescue Advisory Group.
“This means that the skills and talents of our firefighters are sought after across the world.”
In addition to expertise in structural fires and bushfires, QFES Commissioner Katarina Carroll said the organisation’s firefighters possessed a wide range of skills to call upon during emergencies.
“Queensland is fortunate to have specialist firefighters with training in urban search and rescue, vertical rescue and swiftwater rescue as well as other specialist areas,” Ms Carroll said.
“Our firefighters are highly regarded in their field, and their skills have been invaluable during times of disaster in Queensland, Australia and internationally.
“At any time, QFES firefighters can be called upon to assist at crashes, during floods and cyclones, chemical spills, mountain rescues and even animal rescues.
“It is important we take the opportunity on International Firefighters’ Day to thank our personnel for their hard work and professionalism.”
