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Emergency Services Cadet Program Awards Ceremony
On 22nd October, Commissioner Elizabeth Fraser attended the Emergency Services Cadet Program Awards Ceremony in Brisbane.
The Emergency Services Cadet Program is a youth development program that aims to assist young people in year eight up to the age of 16 to develop life skills and to participate in their local community. The program introduces Queensland’s young people to forms of emergency services related training that will better equip them for community life.
The Awards are an annual event that recognises the achievements of Cadets and Adult Members who participate in the program across Queensland.
The overall winner of the 'Adult Member of the Year' went to Andrew Gilmour from the Cooroora Cadet Group for his commitment to his group.
Andrew plans and prepares training for his cadet group then travels 24km by bus on training nights, arriving three hours prior (due to the nature of the rural service in the area). He then walks several kilometres to get to his group. That's dedication!
The 'Cadet of the Year' was awarded to Joel Whitehead from the Lowood Cadet Group. Joel received this award for assisting in the Lowood evacuation centre during the recent floods even when his own family home was flooded. Although his family faced adversity, Joel and three other cadets from Lowood Cadet Group prepared meals, sat and reassured the elderly, manned radios and cleaned toilets and showers.
Ms Fraser congratulated Andrew and Joel on their awards. The Commissioner recognised their commitment to supporting the community during a time when many people sought assurance from emergency officers.
The cadets were skilled in dealing with crisis situations and helped to ensure that immediate issues were taken care of and people’s concerns and feelings were listened to during the floods.
Adult members need blue cards as some of the work involves providing services to children and young people under 18 years of age. The Commission works closely with the Emergency Services Cadet Program to help advise members on blue card requirements.
For more information on the Emergency Services Cadet Program click here.
L-R Adult Member of the Year Andrew Gilmour and Cadet of the Year Joel Whitehead with Commissioner Fraser.
Last Updated: February 15, 2012
