New recruits bolster next generation of firefighters

Minister for Police and Corrective Services and Minister for Fire and Emergency Services The Honourable Mark Ryan

Queensland Fire and Emergency Services welcomed its fourth class of recruits for 2022 at a firefighter graduation ceremony at the Queensland Combined Emergency Services Academy today.

Minister for Fire and Emergency Services Mark Ryan said the 14 new recruits would provide a boost to frontline fire and emergency services once deployed to regions across Queensland.

“These new recruits at QFES will join hard-working and highly-skilled crews at stations across the state,” Minister Ryan said.

“They will be ready to respond to house fires, car crashes, bushfires and many other emergencies or disasters, answering the call when and where it is most needed.

Member for Lytton Joan Pease said the QFES set exacting standards for the graduates.

“QFES expects highly-trained and dedicated firefighters and these graduates have demonstrated impressive commitment to gaining the skills and knowledge necessary to perform vital roles,” Ms Pease said.

“Firefighters play a crucial role in keeping our communities safe responding to emergencies and natural disasters.”

QFES Acting Deputy Commissioner Stephen Smith said the recruits had proven their mettle by undergoing a rigorous training regimen, which included live fire behaviour training, bushfire, road crash rescue, technical rescue and training in hazardous materials management.

“The QFES recruit training course is designed to reflect the broad range of services firefighters provide and recreate real life situations, giving each recruit a strong base to build from throughout their careers,” Mr Smith said.

“The resolve shown by these recruits through the course reflects our values of respect, integrity, courage, loyalty and trust.”

Recruits will continue their studies over the next three years, completing a Certificate III in Public Safety (Firefighting and Emergency Operations) and a Certificate III in Public Safety (Community Safety).

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