Minister for Police, Corrective Services and Emergency Services
The Honourable Neil Roberts

Monday, November 02, 2009

Emergency services personnel protecting Longreach community safety

Parliamentary Secretary for Emergency Services Peta-Kaye Croft today recognised the hard work and dedication of Longreach’s emergency services personnel.

In Longreach for the Bligh Government’s Community Cabinet forum, Ms Croft met with local officers from the Queensland Ambulance Service (QAS), Queensland Fire and Rescue Service (QFRS) and Emergency Management Queensland (EMQ).

“Longreach is served by almost 40 emergency services personnel, including four paramedics; 21 firefighters and auxiliary officers; and 14 active SES volunteers, who dedicate their time to helping their fellow members of the community in times of need,” Ms Croft said.

“These men and women are truly local heroes, and on behalf of the community I thank all of our ambos, firies and SES ‘Orange Angels’ for their extraordinary work,” she said.

“I know first-hand the important work emergency services staff and volunteers carry out in the community every single day.

“Whether it’s during a natural disaster with homes flooded and roofs torn-off, bushfire threats or major community events, the people of Longreach can count on our emergency services personnel to be there when they need them the most.”

Ms Croft said the Bligh Government would continue to ensure top class emergency service facilities were available to the people of Queensland.

“In this year’s budget, we allocated a record $1.02 billion for emergency services across Queensland, to ensure our officers have the facilities and resources needed to continue their outstanding work,” she said.

“After visiting the local QAS Station, QFRS Station and EMQ Area Office, I am confident that the safety of the Longreach community is in good hands.”

Media Contact: Ms Croft – 3239 0199

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