This month we have put Michael Livingston, Supervisor at Peak Downs Mine under the spotlight, highlighting his amazing work in the Dysart community as Captain of the Dysart Fire Station (QFES).
Michael is Moranbah born and bred but moved to Dysart five years ago and has been part of the QFES family for the same amount of time.
“My role in mining and my role as Captain for the Dysart QFES have a lot of similarities,” shares Michael. “It’s about managing people and always maintaining a high safety standard.
“There are times when it is challenging to manage two teams, but BMA and QFES are both extremely understanding and give me the support needed to successfully manage both.”
Auxiliary Firefighters are casual, station-based firefighters who respond to emergency situations when the demand arises and are an integral part of frontline emergency and disaster response in Queensland. These roles are crucial in protecting Queenslander’s property and our environment from harm.
Michael said he started at QFES because he always had an interest and passion for emergency response.
“Coming from a quiet rural town this role allows me to be there in someone’s time of need. Dysart is a small community of just under 3000 residents, meaning that when there is an emergency and a person or a family is impacted, it is felt across the whole community.”
At the Isaac Australian Day Awards in January 2023, Michael and his team took out the Group Medallion for Achievement award in recognition of their coordination of the local Santa run. This event brings the whole community together spreading Christmas cheer and in 2022 the delivered over 300 presents.
“The Santa run was a big event and a great way for us to support the community. We live in a wonderful little town, and this event brings everyone together and shows the giving nature of our community,” said Michael.
That giving nature continues with the BHP OS Ancillary team from Saraji Mine recently donating two brand new 10 piece Milwaukee battery tool kits to the Dysart Fire Station.
Michael said they were very appreciate of the support and the kits are a great addition to their essential tools supplies, which are crucial in times of need.
Every year, QFES relies on approximately 34,000 volunteers to deliver frontline operations and support before, during and after an emergency. Such demand means they’re always on the lookout for Queenslanders willing and able to help protect Queensland’s people, property and environment.
“It takes a diverse team with a range of skills and background to be prepared in the event of an emergency,” explained Michael.
“Volunteers experience camaraderie in being part of a team united towards a common goal and knowing that you’re making a difference. People come from all walks of life and it’s a great way to get to know people and know your community.”
