Rural Fire Service volunteers from the Stanthorpe area celebrated Rural Fire Service Week with the presentation of the regional Young Volunteer of the Year Award, a medal ceremony and the opening of a new Rural Fire Brigade station.
Minister for Fire and Emergency Services Mark Ryan, who attended the event, said Michael Coco of the Applethorpe Rural Fire Brigade was this year's South Western Region Young Volunteer of the Year.
"While Michael has only been with the brigade for two years, he has shown strong commitment, diligence and contributes to the brigade by attending training and incidents," Minister Ryan said.
"He actively promotes the RFS and encourages community members to join the team.
"His positive attitude and enthusiasm make him a highly valuable member of his brigade.
"It is thanks to volunteers like Michael we are able to support our community during tough times, whether that be bushfires, floods or storms."
Queensland Fire and Emergency Services Acting Assistant Commissioner for South Western Region, Mark Stuart, said the day also marked the official opening of the $160,000 Broadwater-Amiens Rural Fire Brigade station.
"The new station will house equipment at a central location, reducing response times to incidents and improving community safety."
A medal ceremony was also held at the event, with four volunteers receiving the National Medal for 15 years of service and three receiving the first clasp for 25 years of service.
Two volunteers received the second, third and fourth clasp to the Diligent and Ethical Service Medal for a commitment to ethical service of 30, 40 and 50 years, respectively.
