Adam Vary
Updated on: October 10, 2024 5:52 am GMT
Southern Superstars Shine at 2024 WAFES Awards
The Western Australian Fire and Emergency Services (WAFES) Awards celebrated outstanding contributions from emergency service volunteers and staff at a gala dinner in Perth on Saturday night. Honorees included a dedicated marine rescue team from Esperance and a State Emergency Service (SES) volunteer from Perth, both recognized for their significant role in safeguarding communities. These awards highlight the commitment and bravery of individuals and teams who responded valiantly to emergencies throughout the past year.
Key Highlights from the Gala
Honoring Exceptional Service
A total of fifteen awards were distributed across three categories—individual, team, and youth—recognizing excellence in firefighting, emergency management, marine rescue, and the SES. The event showcased volunteers’ tireless dedication amid one of the hottest and driest summers on record in southern WA, which posed significant challenges for emergency responders.
Marine Rescue Team Achievement Award
The Marine Rescue Team Achievement Award was bestowed upon the Marine Rescue Esperance unit. They played a crucial role in rescuing five individuals stranded after their boat suffered damage from a shark off the coast of Alexander Bay, approximately 100 kilometers east of Esperance. Acting against strong winds and severe sea conditions, the rescuers persevered for four hours before locating the distressed boat.
- The rescue crew’s prompt actions led to safe retrieval, thanks to the exceptional skill of the skipper who delivered the vessel safely despite challenging circumstances.
- The successful rescue was not only a display of bravery but also highlighted the teamwork and dedication characteristic of the marine rescue teams.
Individual Achievements Recognized
Numerous individuals also received honors for their commendable service. Among them was Danny Jeater from the Swan SES, who received the prestigious Peter Keillor Award for his exemplary leadership throughout the bushfire season.
- Jeater’s management of the SES Volunteer team, which included reloading Large Air Tankers amidst fierce conditions, showcased his leadership and organizational skills.
- His success in coordinating a multi-agency exercise proved instrumental in improving response strategies for mass casualty emergencies.
DFES Corporate Staff Individual Achievement Award
Kathleen Colgate, Executive Manager of Land and Buildings, was honored for her outstanding efforts following the devastating Kimberley floods. Her coordination of temporary accommodations for displaced residents underscored the importance of effective crisis management.
Recognition of Teamwork
Teamwork within the SES was recognized through awards such as the State Emergency Service Team Achievement Award, awarded to Gary Littlewood and Maxine Burrell. They developed a standardized equipment list that has become essential for SES units deployed across the state, streamlining emergency response measures.
Community Impact and Resilience
The accolades at the WAFES Awards not only acknowledged individual and team achievements but also emphasized the crucial role of emergency services in community resilience. Fire and Emergency Services Commissioner Darren Klemm congratulated all the award winners, stating, “What I love about our emergency services family in WA is everyone chips in when a major incident or series of concurrent incidents stretches our resourcing.” He highlighted collective efforts during the Wanneroo bushfire in November, where numerous responders collaborated to control the devastating fire that threatened many homes.
Future Challenges and Preparedness
As southern WA continues to face extreme weather conditions, the importance of readiness and collaboration among emergency services remains paramount. The awards serve as a reminder of the exceptional commitment these professionals have to their communities, paving the way for preparations ahead of the upcoming seasons of potential emergencies.
Related Achievements in 2023
In addition to the recent awards, earlier achievements in 2023 highlighted the ongoing dedication of WA’s emergency services. Volunteer fire brigades and rescue teams have continuously trained and enhanced their capabilities, ensuring they are well-prepared for unforeseen emergencies.
- The Lancelin Volunteer Fire and Rescue Service’s Tom Kusters was recognized for his leadership and tireless commitment, responding to over 500 incidents during his 13 years of service.
- Anthony Mort, from the Cuballing/Popanyinning Bush Fire Brigade, significantly improved recruitment and training, facilitating greater community engagement and response capabilities.
Conclusion
The WAFES Awards are more than just a ceremony; they represent the commitment, courage, and collaboration of emergency service personnel in Western Australia. The stories of resilience and bravery inspire others to join the ranks of volunteers willing to make a difference in their communities. The Pool of talent celebrated during this event ensures that as southern WA faces unpredictable emergencies, there are dedicated individuals ready to respond, protect, and serve their communities with unwavering dedication.
Visit DFES for more information on fire and emergency services in WA.
You can find news about local achievements and safety tips by visiting Emergency WA’s official site.
