Nominations for the very popular RFDS Local Hero Awards are now open for 2021, giving Queenslanders another opportunity to recognise selfless members of the community who have gone above and beyond to help others.
The launch of the sixth year of the awards follows hot on the heels of the announcement of Ilfracombe police officer Bede Little as the overall 2020 RFDS Local Hero, for his commitment to helping others and for his community spirit.
That announcement took place in December, thanks to the delays brought about by the pandemic but RFDS (Queensland section) CEO Meredith Staib said it was all systems go for the new year.
She said the RFDS relished the opportunity to show appreciation for the generosity of unsung heroes that had helped the service.
"Nominees may be a volunteer or fundraiser, a first responder who assisted in an emergency until the RFDS could arrive, or a healthcare advocate who promotes better health outcomes for people in their community," she said.
"These people are often the lifeblood of their communities and we want to learn more about them.
"Our 2021 Queensland Hero will receive a $7500 grant, courtesy of Ergon Energy Retail, to promote a healthcare initiative in their community."
Award recipients can be nominated from each of the nine RFDS Queensland base regions - Brisbane, Bundaberg, Cairns, Charleville, Longreach, Mount Isa, Rockhampton, Roma and Townsville,
Ms Staib said she was very grateful to major partners Ergon Energy Retail, Seven News Queensland and Queensland Country Life, for helping them to shine a light on local heroes.
Ergon Energy Retail executive general manager Ayesha Razzaq said the business was looking forward to again recognising the outstanding work of so many quiet achievers.
"Every year that goes by, we are more impressed by the nominations," Ms Razzaq said. "I'm really looking forward to hearing who this year's overall winner is and how they'll use the grant to help improve community health outcomes in their local area."
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Sally Gall
Based at Blackall, CW Qld, where I've raised a family, run Merino sheep and beef cattle, and helped develop a region - its history, tourism, education and communications. Get in touch at 0427 575 955 if you've got a story idea for me.
Based at Blackall, CW Qld, where I've raised a family, run Merino sheep and beef cattle, and helped develop a region - its history, tourism, education and communications. Get in touch at 0427 575 955 if you've got a story idea for me.
