Community event honours first responders on national day of recognition
CQUniversity joined with Fortem Australia to recognise the dedication and service of North Queensland's emergency personnel, hosting a special community breakfast in Townsville to mark Thank a First Responder Day.
The event brought together first responders, community leaders and CQUniversity staff and students to acknowledge the vital role that emergency service workers play in keeping regional communities safe, resilient and supported.
Representatives from police, fire, ambulance, emergency services and support organisations attended the breakfast, which highlighted the importance of recognising the often-unseen sacrifices made by first responders and their families.
Member for Mundingburra, Janelle Poole APM MP attended the event and said that Thank a First Responder Day is about acknowledging their service, recognising the sacrifices they make and showing appreciation for those who put themselves in harm's way to help others.
“After nearly 30 years as a police officer in Townsville, I know firsthand that first responders don’t just see people on their best days, they are there on their worst days as well, providing support, reassurance and hope during times of crisis.
“First responders miss birthdays, family dinners and special occasions because they are serving their communities. Their commitment often comes with personal sacrifice that many people never see. We thank our first responders today and every day for everything they do.”
Coordinator of Engagement and Partnerships at CQUniversity’s Townsville Campus, Matt Heley said the University was proud to support the initiative and celebrate the contribution that emergency service personnel made across the region.
"Many of our staff, students and graduates either work in frontline emergency services or aspire to careers supporting their communities through these professions," Mr Heley said.
"Hosting this breakfast provides an opportunity to pause and recognise the commitment, professionalism and resilience demonstrated by first responders every day.
"It also reflects CQUniversity's strong connection to the communities we serve and our commitment to supporting the emergency services workforce of the future."
Fortem Australia Activities Officer for the North Queensland region, Trina Bushnell, said community support played an important role in the wellbeing of first responders and their families.
"At Fortem Australia, we work closely with first responders and their families to provide connection, wellbeing and support opportunities," Ms Bushnell said.
"Events like this breakfast are a meaningful way to bring people together, strengthen community connections and acknowledge the extraordinary contribution first responders make every day.
"We're grateful to CQUniversity for partnering with us to create an opportunity for the community to say thank you."
Thank a First Responder Day is a national initiative dedicated to recognising and celebrating the work of emergency service personnel across Australia. The Townsville breakfast formed part of a series of events held around the country to honour the service and commitment of first responders and their families.
