Rural firefighter an Everyday Hero finalist

A young volunteer firefighter and fearless fundraiser who found her passion with the Closeburn Rural Fire Brigade has been recognised for her dedication to her community as a finalist in the QBANK Everyday Heroes Awards.

Georgia Glentworth is one of 22 finalists chosen from across the state for the awards, which celebrate the achievements of people within Queensland Police, Fire, Health, Ambulance, Corrections, Justice, Public Service, Education and volunteers.

She is one of three finalists in the Young Everyday Hero category.

The 18-year-old says she joined the Closeburn Rural Fire Brigade after she was too old to remain with the Australian Army Cadets.

“After leaving my role as the training officer for my unit, much of my week that was usually devoted to running the training for the unit became empty, and for the first time in a long while, I felt without a purpose not serving my community,” Georgia says.

“After a very rough start to the year, members of the brigade devoted personal time to ensuring my wellbeing, and joining the brigade became a natural step.

“Along with the active preparation and prevention for fire season, I also regularly turn out to wildfire, road traffic crashes, Hazard Reduction Burns and creek rescues, but our primary role is assisting QFES, QPS and QAS at incidents.”

Positive impact

Georgia says she is also proud to take part in fundraising activities such as Starlight Super Swim, Run Army and World’s Greatest Shave and she’s honoured to be named a finalist in the awards.

“I don’t think anyone should go into volunteer work with an expectation of anything other than personal satisfaction in knowing your contribution to the community, however, it’s always nice to feel appreciated,” she says.

“I am overjoyed that my work has made a positive impact on the community.”

Georgia says she most enjoys the determination and sense of mateship that come with working with the Rural Fire Service, and the ability to push her mental fortitude, leadership ability and physical skills to the limits, all while having fun with mates.

“Knowing that I am actively contributing to the safety of my house, my family, pets, friends and my pets is by far the most rewarding part of the job,” she says.

“Beyond family, there is nothing more important to me than bettering my community and ensuring I contribute what I have to offer.”

The six award categories are Achievement, Ownership, Dedication, Working Together, Excellence and the Young Everyday Hero Award.

The finalists will be reviewed by a panel of respected judges, and the winners will receive $2000, with an additional $2000 donated to a charity of their choice.

The 2023 Everyday Heroes Award winners will be announced at the annual awards dinner on October 27.

For more information click here.