Medals recognise RFS volunteers’ commitment to community safety
Member for Nicklin Rob Skleton, left, with some of the award recipients at Yandina. “It’s the dedication and selfless commitment of volunteers like these that enable QFES to provide a service the community can depend on.”
Eighty-nine Sunshine Coast and hinterland Rural Fire Service (RFS) volunteers were recognised for their exemplary service at a medal ceremony at Yandina on Saturday.
Representing Minister for Fire and Emergency Services Mark Ryan, Member for Nicklin Rob Skelton said the RFS volunteers received medals that acknowledged their long-standing commitment to ethical standards, diligence and integrity.
“Regional communities rely on the courage and expertise of RFS volunteers to keep them safe during emergencies,” Mr Skelton said.
“We recognised the service of 89 recipients worthy recipients today who have helped the community over a number of decades.
“Collectively, these volunteers have amassed an incredible 1400 years of service.
“Some of these volunteers have individually given 50 years of dedicated service to their communities.
“That amount of experience and dedication is truly exceptional and the commitment today’s medal recipients have demonstrated in serving the people of Queensland is truly inspirational.”
A range of medals and clasps were presented at the ceremony including the Diligent and Ethical Service Medal (DESM), QFES Medal, QFES and National Medal.
“The number of recipients and the many years they have served their communities is a testament to the spirit of this community and their willingness to put their hand up when support is needed,” Mr Skelton said. “They have done incredible work keeping their communities safe and helping to build resilience across the region.”
Queensland Fire and Emergency Services (QFES) Deputy Commissioner Mike Wassing said the medals represented an important acknowledgement of service.
The QFES Medal is in recognition of demonstrated commitment to ethical standards, personal integrity and diligent service, acknowledging 10 years of service, with a clasp awarded for each additional 10 years of service.
The DESM recognises members of the QFES workforce who distinguish themselves over a prolonged period through commitment to ethical standards, diligence and integrity.
The medal is awarded for 10 years’ service with each clasp acknowledging an additional 10 years’ service.
The National Medal is awarded for long and diligent service to members who risk their lives or safety to protect or assist the community in times of emergency or natural disaster.