Three of Queensland Fire and Emergency Services (QFES) finest have been announced as award recipients on this year’s Queen’s Birthday Honour List.
Fire and Emergency Services Minister Craig Crawford said the awards recognised the recipients’ outstanding commitment and service to the state.
“Queensland is fortunate to have thousands of highly skilled and hardworking fire and emergency services personnel who assist the community when times get tough,” Mr Crawford said.
“They make great sacrifices at times to help those in need and I am constantly amazed by their dedication.”
Fire and Rescue Service Chief Superintendent Darryl King, Emergency Management Coordinator Scott Walsh and State Emergency Service (SES) Glass House Mountains Team Leader Louis Spann were all awarded for their commitment and service.
“These individuals exemplify the values of QFES, and these awards are just recognition for the contribution each one has made in their respective field,” Mr Crawford said.
“I want to congratulate each recipient and thank them for the role they continue to play in their local community and further afield.”
Acting QFES Commissioner Michael Wassing said Mr King was awarded the Australian Fire Service Medal (AFSM) for his exemplary leadership and commitment to community resilience over his 28-year career.
“Mr King played a vital role directing QFES’ response during the Gold Coast 2018 Commonwealth Games and his work during this time will enhance future major event and disaster management capability,” Mr Wassing said.
Mr Walsh and Mr Spann both received Emergency Services Medals (ESM) for their longstanding and tireless commitment to the safety of Queensland communities.
“Mr Walsh has spent more than 20 years helping residents prepare for and make it through disaster events, and he has contributed his expertise to the international risk profile of several countries,” Mr Wassing said.
“Mr Spann has been an integral part of the Glass House Mountains State Emergency Service (SES) since 1990, where his passion, enthusiasm and experience has been crucial in successfully completing extreme and challenging mountain rescues.”
Mr Wassing said QFES was very proud and fortunate to have such personnel within its ranks.
“The values embodied by these individuals exemplify those shown by thousands of amazing individuals serving Queenslanders every day,” he said.
“It takes a special type of person to work in fire and emergency services and although many don’t ask for thanks, they are very deserving of recognition.
“I want to sincerely thank the award recipients for their continued service to their colleagues, peers and the Queensland community.”
