Airservices Australia is today honouring its more than 800-strong Aviation Rescue Fire Fighting Service (ARFFS) on International Firefighters' Day.
The recognition day honours the sacrifices made by fire fighters worldwide, not to mention their selfless dedication and commitment as first responders.
Fire fighters dedicate their lives to the protection of life and property - and ARFFS is no exception.
Airservices' ARFFS is the only national fire service in the country - a rapid intervention, first-response service which engages within minutes of any incident, whether it be a first-aid call, fire alarm or a response to an aircraft in trouble.
The physically and mentally demanding occupation sees our aviation rescue fire fighters stationed at 27 of Australia's busiest airports.
To mark International Firefighters' Day, Airservices' Chief Service Delivery Officer Michelle Bennetts announced the following award recipients: Keith Helt, ARFFS Coolangatta Station Officer, as the company's ARFFS Fire Fighter of the Year and Michael Abulencia, Instructional Designer, People and Culture, as ARFFie of the Year.
"Airservices is exceptionally proud of its passionate and dedicated aviation rescue fire fighters," Ms Bennetts said.
"We extend much gratitude and appreciation to them on International Firefighters' Day for their invaluable service to the community and industry.
"Congratulations to Keith and Michael for being outstanding ARFFS ambassadors."
Both Keith and Michael were honoured for making a difference to others' wellbeing, living our values and contributing to the success of Airservices Australia.
Keith is a future leader in the making, recognised for his new ideas to the training environment and day-to-day operations. Meanwhile, Michael is well-known within the ARFFS community, particularly for his support in developing training materials.
