Emily Garbutt
Updated on: October 10, 2024 2:20 pm GMT
Southern WA Heroes Honored at the 2024 WAFES Awards
Esteemed volunteers and staff from Southern Western Australia (WA) were recognized for their heroic efforts during the 2023 emergency response season at the Western Australian Fire and Emergency Services (WAFES) Awards, held on Saturday night in Perth. The event celebrated exemplary contributions across three categories: individual, team, and youth, showcasing the lifesaving work of groups such as the Marine Rescue team from Esperance who saved five stranded individuals from shark-infested waters.
The Awards Ceremony
This year marked the annual celebration of dedication and bravery among emergency service personnel. A total of fifteen awards were distributed, with notable accolades going to those who demonstrated exceptional leadership and quick response amid perilous situations.
Recognizing Lifesavers
During the gala’s main event, various heroes were honored, including volunteers from various corners of Southern WA. Fire and Emergency Services Commissioner Darren Klemm praised the collaborative spirit exhibited by emergency service teams in the state, particularly during the unrelenting bushfire season.
Marine Rescue Esperance: Team Achievement Award
The Marine Rescue group from Esperance received the Marine Rescue Team Achievement Award for their courageous efforts. They successfully rescued five individuals after their boat suffered damage from a shark off the coast of Alexander Bay. Battling strong winds and swell, the crew aboard the Volunteer IV worked tirelessly for four hours before locating and safely returning the stranded boaters to shore.
Swan SES: Individual Achievement Award
Another highlight of the night was the recognition of Swan SES volunteer Danny Jeater. Jeater received the prestigious Peter Keillor Award for his leadership during the recent bushfire season. He effectively managed the SES team responsible for reloading Large Air Tankers, enabling them to tackle some of the summer’s most challenging fires.
Key Winners from Southern WA
The success stories continued with a number of awards spotlighting various heroes:
- Marine Rescue Team Achievement Award: Marine Rescue Esperance
- Murray Lang Bush Fire Service Award: Anthony Mort, Cuballing/Popanyinning Bush Fire Brigade
- Volunteer Fire and Rescue Service Individual Achievement Award: Tom Kusters, Lancelin Volunteer Fire and Rescue Service
- Peter Keillor Award (SES): Danny Jeater, Swan SES
- Career Fire and Rescue Service Individual Achievement Award: Mark Papadopoff, Butler Fire Station
- State Emergency Service Team Achievement Award: Gary Littlewood and Maxine Burrell, Bassendean SES
- DFES Corporate Staff Individual Achievement Award: Kathleen Colgate, Land and Buildings Executive Manager
Inspiring Leadership and Commitment
Key Contributions
Each awardee reflected a commitment to their community and duty. For instance, Anthony Mort revitalized his fire brigade through enhanced recruitment and training, showing the profound impact of strong leadership. His initiatives have fostered a collaborative environment between town and rural brigades, resulting in improved readiness in battling fires.
Volunteer Firefighter Recognition
Tom Kusters, recognized for his contributions to emergency responses, emphasized the importance of teamwork and mental health for firefighters. His leadership and participation in firefighting efforts abroad underscore the vital role of volunteers in regional communities.
Corporate Achievement Recognized
Additionally, Kathleen Colgate was celebrated for her exceptional management skills following the devastating Kimberley floods. Her ability to coordinate temporary accommodations for displaced residents showcased outstanding dedication and support during a crisis.
Recent Challenges Faced
The 2023-2024 summer season presented unprecedented challenges for emergency services, recording one of the driest seasons on record. As Commissioner Klemm highlighted, numerous emergency teams came together to combat threatening situations, such as the Wanneroo bushfire in November. Their collective efforts saved many homes from destruction, demonstrating the invaluable contribution of community members during emergencies.
Community and Collaborative Spirit
Throughout the awards ceremony, a common theme prevailed: the resilience and unity displayed among emergency responders in WA. Volunteers from across the state understand the importance of collaboration, especially in light of the mounting pressures faced during multiple emergencies.
Conclusion
The WAFES Awards celebrated the hard work of amazing people and teams in Western Australia’s emergency services. These heroes show how important it is to help each other and work together. As they go back to their important jobs, their incredible stories encourage others to step up and be ready to help when emergencies happen. Thanks to them, we know there will always be brave and skilled teams ready to respond when needed.
