ECEC educator recognised in QFES Australia Day Achievement Awards

Early childhood education and care (ECEC) educator Hailey Wetzel is one of 100 remarkable individuals who will be recognised in an annual celebration of Queensland heroism and dedication to community in the Queensland Fire and Emergency Services (QFES) Australia Day Achievement Awards this week. 

The Awards recognise QFES staff and volunteers from the State Emergency Service (SES), Rural Fire Service (RFS), and Fire and Rescue Service (FRS) for their outstanding service this past year.

Ms Wetzel is an SES volunteer and is being recognised for her skill and perseverance during a 15-day land search conducted on Magnetic Island in August of last year.

Having grown up on the island, her involvement in the SES came naturally to her as an extension of her work to educate children in the community.

“Here, we really do rely on one another and band together in times of crisis,” Ms Wetzel said.

“Whenever we have flooding, cyclones, or any natural disaster, we can become cut-off from the rest of the region. Growing up, I recognised that the SES were always present to lend a helping hand.”

Ms Wetzel joined the SES with her partner a couple of years ago. Since then, their involvement and leadership has only increased.

“I am proud of the work we do, and what we have given back to the community through our service,” she said. 

The QFES Australia Day Achievement Awards recognise recipients across seven Queensland regions, and include nominations based on leadership, initiatives, and education and awareness programs.

“All recipients of this year’s Australia Day Achievement Awards, and indeed all those within QFES, go above and beyond to keep Queensland safe,” said QFES Commissioner Greg Leach.

Mr Leach thanked sponsor Australian Retirement Trust for its ongoing support. Ceremonies will take place in Brisbane, Mackay, Longreach, Cairns, Maryborough, Townsville, Beenleigh and Toowoomba, and will run from 21 January.

Ms Wetzel is pictured on the left.