IGNITING YOUNG FUTURES Firefighters Honoured For Cadet Program Initiative

Two auxiliary firefighters who helped establish a ground-breaking youth program for local teens were among 81 firefighters recognised for their service across the state.

The Queensland Fire Department Australia Day Achievement Award, proudly sponsored by QSuper, annually recognises and celebrates community heroes who personify the spirit of mateship, service, and endurance.

Timothy Davis and Christopher McMasters, auxiliary firefighters from Moranbah, received their awards at a special ceremony at Mackay Fire Station last Wednesday, 29th January.

QFD Assistant Commissioner Michael O’Neil highlighted the significance of the awards.

“Today (29th January) is about acknowledging the great work that our people do.

"Every day, our people roll out the door and do a great job, but today’s about acknowledging those that do go above and beyond and do a little bit extra,” said Commissioner O’Neil.

Auxiliary firefighters Timothy Davis and Christopher McMasters were recognised with the Queensland Fire Department Australia Day Achievement Award for their dedication to the community and their work in establishing a youth cadet program. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

Emergency Services Cadet Program Earns State-wide Recognition For Local Firefighters

Moranbah auxiliary firefighters Timothy Davis and Christopher McMasters have been honoured with the Queensland Fire Department Australia Day Achievement Award for their dedication to the community.

At a ceremony held at Mackay Fire Station, QFD Assistant Commissioner Michael O’Neil commended recipients for embodying the spirit of mateship and endurance.

“Through the Australia Day awards, we recognise the people that go above and beyond in serving their community,” Commissioner O’Neil said.

Mr McMasters and Mr Davis played crucial roles in bringing the Emergency Services Cadet program to life, providing local youth with valuable skills and opportunities in remote and regional areas, such as Moranbah.

“Tim and I have started with the emergency services cadets, which is a youth program, bringing it into our area,” Mr McMasters said.

Seeing a gap in opportunities for young people in the community, the duo took the initiative to create a program that would inspire and prepare the next generation.

“There wasn't anything for the youth like this around our area, so seeing a need with community and volunteers, we started the cadets,” he explained.

Designed for 12 to 17-year-olds, the initiative also aims to foster long-term engagement by encouraging participants to continue volunteering in the future.

“The program is from 12 to 17-year-olds, and then after that, we hope that they'll either come back as volunteer leaders or go on to volunteer themselves in some other capacity.

“Most of the time, the kids always get excited about playing with the tools on the fire truck,” added Mr McMasters.

The program is designed to be open and inclusive, ensuring that any young person who wants to participate has the opportunity to do so.

“The program is free…it's all for the community.

“It's open for everyone, there's no restrictions, and we'll certainly work with the schools and any of the other youth groups that are in town.”

Mr Davis also emphasised the significance of such programs, not only for skill development but also for fostering resilience and confidence in young people.

“Programs like this are a solid board in our state.

“It’s doing well to engage the kids, and it also provides a sense of support, ownership, and helps build a growing community.”

Both Mr Davis and Mr McMasters were incredibly humble in receiving their award, yet remarkably appreciative of the recognition.

Moranbah firefighters Timothy Davis and Christopher McMasters were recognised with the Queensland Fire Department Australia Day Achievement Award for their role in establishing the Emergency Services Cadet Program, providing valuable skills and opportunities for local youth. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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