RURAL volunteer firefighters do not do their job for personal glory, but to support the community they love.
This is what Greenbank rural firefighter volunteer Bernie Savage had to say for Yellow Ribbon Day on Tuesday, October 16 , which is about paying tribute to Queensland’s 36,000 Rural fire service volunteers.
The former Jimboomba fire station captain signed up as a volunteer 28 years ago and said he never looked back.
“We don’t do the job for any thanks, we do it because it is our community...that is why we do it,” he said.
“I signed up because I wanted to do something to assist the community I live in. It is a great way to help the community and learn different skills.”
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Queensland fire and emergency services minister Craig Crawford said Yellow Ribbon Day was important to him as a former Victorian rural firefighter.
“Brigade members spend countless hours away from families and friends, volunteering their time to put the needs of the community first,” he said.
“Many brigades not only fight bush fires, but also provide support and assistance during a range of emergency events. They protect and support communities against any threat, including storms, cyclones and road traffic crashes.”
QFES commissioner Katarina Carroll said Yellow Ribbon Day was about recognising the contribution of firefighters across the state.
“We are highly dependent on volunteers in our communities as they help local land owners with fire mitigation activities and participate in regional training exercises to ensure they are ready to respond when disaster strikes,” she said.
Rural Fire Brigades Association Queensland general manager Justin Choveaux said the 2018 bushfire season was already testing the resolve of all firefighters.
People are encouraged to wear a yellow ribbon in support of rural firefighter volunteers for the day.