- $1 million Rural Fire Service (RFS) Innovation Fund to be established
- Part of a record Queensland State Budget investment with more vehicles and more staff
- Yellow Ribbon Day is an annual celebration to thank the thousands of rural fire brigade volunteers who protect every corner of our state.
The announcement of an RFS Innovation Fund will support future operations and is a welcome announcement for Yellow Ribbon Day.
The Palaszczuk Government is investing in the future capability of RFS through an innovation fund which will help develop new ways of delivering rural firefighting services to Queensland communities.
This is in addition to funds allocated to increase staffing for the RFS, with 114 approved additional positions allocated by the State Government.
All Queenslanders are encouraged to wear a yellow ribbon today to show support for the dedicated RFS volunteers, officers and staff who serve our communities, year in and year out.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Fire and Emergency Services Mark Ryan:
“Ensuring our Rural Fire Brigades have access to the best equipment available is a priority,” he said.
“This innovation fund will enable new solutions and technologies to be tested for operational effectiveness, in consultation with volunteers on the front line.
“In addition, the increase in staffing will improve service training delivery across multiple areas.”
Quotes attributable to QFES Commissioner Greg Leach:
“Rural fire brigades do so much more than just fight grassfires and bushfires. They are on the ground with their communities, providing vital education and support for people to be prepared for bushfire season,” he said.
“Our RFS volunteers provide protection for 93 per cent of the state’s land area.”
“We are anticipating increased fire activity this bushfire season and once again our dedicated RFS volunteers will be called upon to protect lives and property when fire strikes.
“I encourage everyone to have their bushfire survival plans up-to-date and be ready to enact them if needed.”
Quotes attributable to RFBAQ President, Ian Pike:
“The RFBAQ in partnership with others has been supporting innovation for equipment and processes for many years in support of Rural Fire Brigades.
“This $1 million Innovation Fund from the State Government will accelerate the opportunities for better services and better equipment.
“We thank Premier Palaszczuk for this investment in Rural Fire Brigades.”
