OPINION: Why firefighters deserve our utmost respect

QUEENSLAND is under siege. From Deepwater and Mackay in the north to our own Karara and Ma Ma Creek – deadly bushfires are threatening homes and livelihoods.

Firefighters battle a blaze in Karara.

QUEENSLAND is under siege.

From Deepwater and Mackay in the north to our own Karara and Ma Ma Creek - deadly bushfires are threatening lives, homes and livelihoods.

Late last week and at the weekend the threat escalated to the point that large 737 aircraft were used to fight major fires, and firefighters from New South Wales deployed across our state to lend support.

Unfortunately the fires are nothing we haven't seen before in Queensland.

That means we should not turn a blind eye to what is happening or downplay the actions of firefighters.

When I was younger my dad often spoke about his time in the NSW forestry department and the times they fought fires.

Some of the scenes he described were quite terrifying which is why I have nothing but respect and admiration for our firefighters.

During some of our nation's toughest moments they are on the front lines without question - knowing full well their lives are at risk.

They are there risking their own lives so that property and people may survive.

That is why we should never take their actions for granted.

So please say thank-you if you ever get the chance.

Originally published as OPINION: Why firefighters deserve our utmost respect