Queensland Corrective Services officers who responded to protests at Capricornia Correctional Centre were today recognised for their bravery.
More than 150 officers received the Commissioner’s Unit Citation award following rioting at the precinct in late 2021.
Minister for Corrective Services Mark Ryan and Commissioner Paul Stewart APM formally presented the officers with the high-honour award.
It is only the second time the prestigious award has been granted since it was introduced in 2019.
“The bravery and dedication of the QCS officers who responded to the Capricornia Correctional Centre riots deserve to be recognised,” Minister Ryan said.
“Teams of tactical response officers from Capricornia Correctional Centre worked shoulder-to-shoulder with colleagues from Maryborough and a number of South East Queensland correctional centres to stop riotous behaviour, and restore order to the facility.
“This award is a testament to the professional conduct of the responding officers on 21 October, 2021.
“They demonstrated courage, dedication and commitment to community safety, and we thank them for their extraordinary service.”
Commissioner Stewart praised the 152 officers who received Unit Citations for their critical work in a highly dynamic and volatile environment.
“The work of QCS officers during the incident ensured the safety of officers, prisoners and the community, and I personally commend each and every one of them for their efforts,” Commissioner Stewart said.
“Correctional work and the daily challenges we face and overcome are not always acknowledged or well-understood by the broader community.
“The importance of formally recognising and awarding those among our workforce who demonstrate bravery, sustained commitment, duty, excellence and meritorious service cannot be overstated.”
The Commissioner’s Unit Citation award is part of the QCS Honours Program introduced in 2019 and is presented to a group of officers for outstanding conduct, professionalism or exceptional proficiency in operations, or operations support.
