BlazeAid volunteers recognised for dedication to Southern Downs’ bushfire recovery

As National Volunteer Week comes to a close, a special ceremony was held in the Granite Belt acknowledging the outstanding efforts of two BlazeAid volunteers. Full details here.

An honourable mention was given to two volunteers who were nationally recognised for their dedication to bushfire recovery in April.

To round out National Volunteer Week on the Southern Downs a special ceremony was held to acknowledge BlazeAid stalwarts Chris and John Male.

Last month the volunteer couple attended a Government House in Melbourne where they were nationally recognised for their efforts, with the pair awarded an Order of Australia Medal.

The couple have been assisting the Southern Downs community since November 2023, leading an army of volunteers in rebuilding hundreds of kilometres of damaged fencing caused by the devastating October bushfires.

DALVEEN, AUSTRALIA – NewsWIRE Photos NOVEMBER 01, 2023: One of the homes lost in the fires. Fire damage around Dalveen (near Warwick) Bushfires burning through the Southern Downs regional area near the Queensland to NSW border. Picture: NCA NewsWIRE / John Gass

Acknowledging their bushfire recovery efforts in the region Southern Downs mayor Melissa Hamilton said it was a privilege to honour their support.

“The October 2023 bushfires in the Granite Belt caused extensive damage to properties surrounding Dalveen with fencing, homes, businesses and other infrastructure being lost,” Ms Hamilton said.

“Local communities were fortunate to have a legion of BlazeAid volunteers mobilise in force from across the country to help our community rebuild.

“During National Volunteer Week, all volunteers deserve to be recognised for freely giving their time and energy to make a difference in the lives of those who need it most.

“While John and Chris have volunteered all over Australia with BlazeAid, it is an honour to celebrate their OAMs here in the Granite Belt where they have supported our community in the recovery process.”

The event was held at the She-Hive Granite Belt Ladies Shed on Thursday afternoon, acknowledging the hard efforts of all volunteers in the region.

Originally published as BlazeAid volunteers recognised for dedication to Southern Downs’ bushfire recovery