Volunteer firefighters honoured for selfless efforts ahead of RFS Week

Two heroes have been recognised for their work, with both men saying they couldn’t have done it without their team’s support.

LOCAL HEROES: Jondaryan Rural Fire Brigade Kirk Dorries (left) and Glen Aplin Rural Fire Brigade volunteer John Lemon have received awards during RFS Week.

Not all heroes wear capes – in fact, some wear bunker gear, boots and helmets.

Volunteer firefighters from across the state have been recognised with awards as part of Rural Fire Service (RFS) Week.

Among the list of worthy recipients is South-West Regional Young Volunteer of the year Kirk Dorries.

Jondaryan Rural Fire Brigade Kirk Dorries have received awards during RFS Week. Picture: Kevin Farmer

The 21-year-old who has been volunteering at Jondaryan Rural Fire Brigade since 2017, said the opportunity to assist others had been life-changing.

“Sometimes the people I meet have lost everything, so to be able to help anyone affected by a tragedy, is a real honour,” Mr Dorries said.

“I always give my hat to the kids I meet and when you see them waving that hat, you see the impact you have on your community … that’s why I do this.”

Hoping to pursue a career as a firefighter, the 21-year-old award recipient said he was grateful for the support he had received from the entire crew.

“When I put that uniform on, I’m representing my community, state and country, but also the men and women who have laid down their lives in the exact uniform … that’s something I don’t take lightly,” Mr Dorries said.

“I think RFS Week is about celebrating what we do and the communities we represent, but it’s also about connection and spreading bushfire awareness messages.”

South West Regional Volunteer of the Year John Lemon, who volunteers at the Glen Aplin Rural Fire Brigade.

Receiving the 2021 South West Regional Volunteer of the Year award is John Lemon, who has dedicated his time at the Glen Aplin Rural Fire Brigade since 2006.

“For me, RFS Week is about commending all the people and volunteers who help out,” Mr Lemon said.

“Whether you win an award or not, everyone plays such a big role and it’s about thanking those people.”

Both volunteers assisted with the devastating fires that swept through Stanthorpe and the surrounds in 2019.

As the ceremony has been postponed due to Covid-19, recipients will receive their awards at a later date.

RFS Week runs until August 7.

For bushfire safety advice, please contact your local RFS or Fire and Rescue Service brigades or visit qfes.qld.gov.au.