DECADES OF SERVICE HONOURED

Queensland Mines Rescue Service (QMRS) volunteers are often the people working quietly behind the scenes, training, preparing and standing ready for situations most hope never happen. In Emerald last month, those volunteers were formally recognised for decades of commitment to mine safety and emergency response across Queensland.

The evening recognised members reaching milestones from five years through to 30 years of service, alongside recipients of the National Medal for Service and National Medal for Service Clasps for sustained voluntary service.

QMRS Chief Executive Officer Tim Jackson said the awards recognised the commitment, professionalism and sacrifice of volunteers who continue to step forward when needed most.

“These awards recognise people who have dedicated years, and in many cases decades, to training, emergency response and protecting others in high-pressure environments.

“Mines Rescue is built on commitment. These volunteers balance work, family life and ongoing training to maintain the skills and readiness required to respond during emergencies.

“The strength of QMRS has always been its people, experienced members passing on knowledge, teams backing each other and volunteers willing to put their hand up when it matters most.”

Kestrel Competition Team member Simon Weekley was recognised for 15 years of service, while a Mine Inertisation Unit (MIU) member.

“The leadership and mentors have really paved the way for me in Mines Rescue and I’ve gained so much knowledge from them. It’s also about the people you meet across the different mines and the professionalism they bring. It’s a great community to be part of and I think there’s a really positive future ahead for QMRS.” Simon said.

Dual MIU and Black Suits member James Vardanega was also recognised for 30 years of service with QMRS.

“The commitment and friendships I’ve made through Mines Rescue have been incredible. I’ve had the opportunity to compete at local, state and national level, and even had the privilege of travelling to Poland to compete internationally. Those experiences have helped me mentor other teams and become an assessor. It’s been an amazing journey, I’ve made lifelong friendships and been part of something that makes a real difference.” James said.

The evening highlighted the depth of experience across Mines Rescue in Queensland, with many recipients reflecting on the strong sense of teamwork, responsibility and mateship that has kept them involved over many years.

Tim Jackson said the awards were about more than years of service, recognising the people and culture behind QMRS capability across the state.

“These awards represent thousands of hours of training, competitions, deployments and preparation carried out quietly behind the scenes.

“Some recipients were recognised across multiple service categories and awards, reflecting their contributions across both Mines Rescue and MIU disciplines.

“The people recognised tonight have helped shape the culture, capability and readiness of Mines Rescue across Queensland.

“Because when it matters most, these are the people ready to respond.”