Local heroes to be recognised with National Emergency Medal
Just over a year on from Townsville’s devastating monsoon flooding event, the call is going out for local volunteers and emergency workers to be recognised with a National Emergency Medal.
Member for Herbert Phillip Thompson said the Governor-General had agreed that the 2019 North Queensland floods should be declared nationally significant emergencies for the purposes of the Medal.
“Townsville’s floods had a devastating impact on our community – including sadly claiming five lives,” Mr Thompson said.
“It was incredible to witness first-hand the dedication and bravery of our emergency services personnel and volunteers.
“Whether it was rescuing the elderly stranded in their flooded homes, or entering fast-flowing waterways to save stranded locals, their commitment to the task was incredible.
“None of these people were in it for the accolades, but it’s time those heroes who saved lives and helped our community during its toughest time were acknowledged.”
The National Emergency Medal was established in 2011. More than 15,000 medals have been awarded to responders and volunteers to the 2009 Victoria bushfires that included Black Saturday, and the Queensland floods that occurred over December to January 2010-2011 including Cyclone Yasi.
Emergency service workers and volunteers involved in the response to Tropical Cyclone Debbie in 2017 are also eligible to receive the National Service Medal.
“I would encourage anyone who knows someone who might be deserving of this honour, to fill out the nomination form on the website,” Mr Thompson said.
For more information, visit: https://www.gg.gov.au/australian-honours-and-awards/national-emergency-medal.
ENDS