Community & Business
11 September, 2026
Rural firefighters celebrated
A KURANDA volunteer firefighter has been issued with a Commissioner’s Unit Commendation for her assistance with the 2024 Canadian wildfires, while 12 others from the region have been presented with a Queensland Fire Medal.
The Tablelands Rural Fire Service Queensland (RFSQ) Area Office hosted an awards presentation recently to celebrate the service, commitment, and achievements of volunteer members from across the Mareeba, Tablelands, Croydon, and Etheridge shires.
The event included a graduation ceremony recognising 28 graduates who successfully completed their firefighting minimum skills training, with epaulettes presented to mark the occasion.
It also included the presentation of 10 Queensland Fire Medals, 10 Queensland Fire and Emergency Services Medal Clasps and 1 Commissioner’s Unit Commendation.
“This awards ceremony was a strong outcome for the region and an important recognition of the service, commitment, and contribution of people within our communities,” Inspector Anthony Staniland said.
“It highlights leadership at all levels and will help build local capability across the RFSQ Tablelands area, including Croydon, Etheridge, Tablelands, and Mareeba shires, encompassing 67 brigades and 1,351 volunteers.”
“These 28 graduates will make a valuable contribution to local brigades across the area. Their successful completion of training strengthens local capability and helps ensure communities continue to be supported by skilled and committed RFSQ volunteers.”
A Queensland Fire Medal recognises members of the Queensland Fire Department who have demonstrated diligent and ethical service, acknowledging sustained commitment and professionalism over a prolonged period of service.
A Commissioner’s Unit Commendation recognises the extraordinary efforts of an individual or group who participate in an action or program at a level above and beyond the expectations of their role.
Savannah Terrar of the Kuranda Myola Rural Fire Brigade (RFB) was recognised for serving RFSQ with distinction during an international firefighting deployment to assist with the Canadian wildfires in 2024.
Queensland Fire Medal recipients:
• Bernadette Iraci – Springmount RFB
• Jason Haynes – Tumoulin RFB
• John Green – Einasleigh RFB
• John Price – Springmount RFB
• Justin Buck – Mount Garnet RFB
• Margaret Wass – Tumoulin RFB
• Marion Campbell – Croydon RFB
• Rodney Pardon – Millstream South RFB
• Rosario Iraci – Springmount RFB
• Stephan Smith – Innot Hot Springs
• Wayne Bing Chew – Little River RFB
• William (Bill) Bean – Barrine RFB
Commissioner Unit Commendation:
• Savannah Terrar – Kuranda Myola RFB
