Volunteers are community heroes

RECOGNISING Southern Downs’ emergency support volunteers is an important part of giving back to our community heroes during National Volunteer Week, writes Minister for Police and Community Safety Jack Dempsey.
During a crisis or natural disaster, men and women across Queensland volunteer countless hours to support their communities. But these heroes also volunteer their time in the delivery of everyday front-line services. From storm damage response, to firefighting and advanced first aid, volunteers across the state assist in protecting the lives and property of Queenslanders.
National Volunteer Week will be held from May 13-19 and I encourage everyone to say ‘Thanks a Million’ to volunteers in their own community.
The Department of Community Safety (DCS) recruits, trains and supports more than 40,000 volunteers, who last year dedicated more than 450,000 hours (or in excess of 27 million minutes) to supporting their communities.
These men and women commit this time to a range of roles within the Queensland Ambulance Service (QAS), State Emergency Service (SES), and Queensland Fire and Rescue Service (QFRS).
As Minister for Police and Community Safety, I would like to sincerely thank those individuals who are committed to the safety of Queenslanders.
The Department of Community Safety could not provide outstanding front-line services without the dedication of these wonderful volunteers.
As well as recognising the tremendous work of volunteers, I would also encourage anyone who has thought of becoming a volunteer to explore the options available within DCS.
From helping people after a storm or natural disaster, searching for a missing person, providing lifesaving advanced first aid to fighting fires, the opportunities are endless. For more information, visit: www.ses.qld.gov.auwww.ambulance.qld.gov.au/volunteer or www.ruralfire.qld.gov.au/Volunteering