Queensland’s volunteer firefighters are being recognised for their service during Rural Fire Service Queensland (RFSQ) Week 2026, with award winners announced and new firefighting vehicles being handed over to brigades across the state.
The week-long event celebrates the work of more than 27,000 Rural Fire Service Queensland volunteers who help communities prepare for, respond to and recover from bushfires and other emergencies.
Among those recognised is North Dallarnil Rural Fire Brigade volunteer Max Pearce, who has been named State Volunteer of the Year after 47 years of service. Mr Pearce played a key role in establishing the North Dallarnil brigade and has remained actively involved in emergency response and community preparedness.
Round Mountain Rural Fire Brigade volunteer Keira Danziger has been named State Young Volunteer of the Year in recognition of her commitment to her brigade and local community.
The Stanwell Rural Fire Brigade, which serves the Rockhampton region, received the State Brigade of the Year award for its work in emergency response and disaster preparedness.
The Queensland Government used the start of RFSQ Week to highlight funding for rural firefighting resources included in the 2026-27 State Budget. Planned investments include replacement and new rural fire trucks, brigade station projects, operational equipment and facility upgrades.
More than a dozen new firefighting vehicles are scheduled to be handed over to brigades during the week, following the delivery of more than 100 new firefighting appliances to volunteers in the previous financial year.
Minister for Fire, Disaster Recovery and Volunteers Ann Leahy said the week was an opportunity to acknowledge the contribution volunteers make to communities across Queensland.
“Our volunteer firefighters are there when Queenslanders need them most, giving their time to help protect lives, property and communities across the state,” Ms Leahy said.
She said the government was investing in new vehicles, brigade stations, upgraded facilities and equipment to support volunteers in their work.
Queensland Fire Department Commissioner Steve Smith said volunteers contribute well beyond emergency response, taking part in training, preparedness meetings and community events throughout the year.
“They are the friendly faces their neighbours can count on to help them stay informed, prepared and educated,” Commissioner Smith said.
Rural Fire Service Queensland Chief Officer Kaylene Jones said the award recipients reflected the dedication and resilience shown by volunteers across the service.
“They help us maintain a strong organisation that can continue to be there for the people of Queensland in some of their most challenging times,” Chief Officer Jones said.
RFSQ Week was officially launched at the Yuleba Rural Fire Brigade, with events taking place across Queensland to recognise the contribution of volunteers who support their communities throughout the year.
The government’s announcement also included criticism of the previous Labor administration’s management of volunteer firefighting resources and workforce numbers. Those claims were not accompanied by a response from the opposition in the announcement.
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