QFES celebrated at Australia Day Achievement Awards
30 January 2020
6
min read
Australia’s devastating summer of bushfires brought into stark relief the incredible work of the nation’s firefighters and emergency services workers, many of whom were recognised at Australia Day Achievement Award ceremonies across the country in January.
Queensland Fire and Emergency Services staff and volunteers were among those honoured in a series of official ceremonies in Brisbane, Cairns, Gympie, Toowoomba, Rockhampton, Beenleigh and Townsville.
Seventy-two awards were presented to QFES members in recognition of outstanding character, integrity and leadership.
Queensland Acting Minister for Fire and Emergency Services Di Farmer said the awards recognised QFES members “who had made significant contributions to building connected and capable communities”.
These awards allow us to publicly thank those who have devoted themselves to supporting Queenslanders to prevent, prepare for, respond to and recover from disasters.
“The recent bushfire crisis in New South Wales has also shown the willingness of our staff and volunteers to assist their interstate colleagues in their time of greatest need.”
QSuper has been a proud sponsor of the QFES Australia Day Achievement Awards for the past 12 years and chief executive officer Michael Pennisi praised the courage and dedication of the state’s firefighters and emergency services workers.
Speaking at the Brisbane ceremony where 23 QFES staff and volunteer and seven individual award winners were recognised, Mr Pennisi said: “At past ceremonies I have reflected on the bravery, the commitment and the dedication of the members of Fire and Emergency Services who have protected Queenslanders during fires, drought, floods and cyclones.
“As Australians, we understand that this is part and parcel of living in this great country and this great state. We also understand that our prosperity, our families, our homes, our places of work and the places where we spend our leisure time remain protected because of you and your colleagues who put others before themselves.
“This has been all too apparent over the past months as some of the most dangerous conditions imaginable were put before you. As always, you have faced into the challenge head on, volunteers and professional personnel together, literally running into areas in need,” he said.
For this we owe you a great debt and thanks and we also thank your families for supporting you in the very important work that you do.”
Bushfire assistance
Our thoughts go out to all Australians in times of crisis. If you have been affected or have questions about your super, contact us on 1300 360 750 or click here