Six Kimberley emergency services heroes selected as finalists for WAFES awards

Five individuals and one team of volunteer service providers from the Kimberley have been selected as finalists in the WA Fire and Emergency Services Awards. The Broome Volunteer Fire and Rescue team, alongside fellow Kimberley emergency service worker and volunteers Nadia Olawsky, Bec Benson, Krisma May, Craig Doyle and Karen Brennan were selected as finalists in five of the 13 different categories of the awards. Broome Volunteers Fire and Rescue were selected as finalists for the firefighting team achievement award, with Mr Doyle, a Broome Volunteer Fire and Rescue Service volunteer, also a finalist for the individual achievement award. Ms Brennan, who volunteers for the Derby Volunteer Fire and Rescue Service, was named a finalist for the individual achievement award. Ms Olawsky from the Crossing Falls Volunteer Bush Fire Brigade was selected as a finalist for the firefighting youth achievement award. Ms Benson, the DFES Pilbara and Kimberley Marine district officer, was named a finalist for the DFES operational staff individual achievement award. The Kimberley volunteer heroes were recognised alongside 29 other volunteers from around the State, from as far north as Kununurra to as far south as Margaret River. Broome Marine Rescue commander Krisma May, a finalist for the marine rescue individual achievement award, said she was overwhelmed and honoured to be considered alongside an amazing group of finalists. “I am surrounded by really dedicated people and without all of them I wouldn’t be sitting here,” she said. Ms Benson said it was always appreciated to get recognition for what’s being done in the regions with marine rescue. “I’m just a part of a much bigger team made up of all the volunteers,” she said. Emergency Services Minister Stephen Dawson said he congratulated all the finalists for their outstanding commitment to keeping their communities safe. “Each year, nearly 26,000 volunteers and 1600 operational personnel work tirelessly to protect WA communities,” he said. “These individuals and groups demonstrate exceptional professionalism, leadership and commitment in their roles. “I look forward to seeing their invaluable contribution acknowledged at the WAFES Awards later this year.” The award winners will be announced at a gala dinner on Saturday, September 10 at Crown in Perth.