Excellent environment workers recognised

The accomplishments of exemplary fire management staff from the Department of Parks and Wildlife have been formally recognised for the first time at the department’s annual graduation and awards celebrations.

Presenting the awards at a ceremony today, Environment Minister Albert Jacob said 28 nominations were received from across the State for the inaugural Fire Management Recognition Program.

“Eleven people involved in various fire management roles were today honoured and commended for their outstanding leadership, achievements and contributions to different activities across the State,” Mr Jacob said.

“These hard working people help protect our State’s natural assets and park infrastructure throughout the year by carrying out prescribed burns and fighting fires and they deserve to be congratulated and recognised.”

A total of 41 people graduated from several training programs that focused on conservation and parks management. In addition,16 staff from the Department of Environment Regulation were recognised following the completion of their training in areas including statutory compliance, environmental enforcement and investigations.

“These dedicated public servants have spent many hours working hard to complete job specific training,” the Minister said.

Four graduates from the Department of Parks and Wildlife’s Mentored Aboriginal Training and Employment Scheme (MATES) were also recognised.

“The Aboriginal Trainee of the Year was awarded to Keith Boombi in recognition of his commitment to a range of roles including involvement in Kimberley biodiversity surveys,” Mr Jacob said.

“I’d like to congratulate all of today’s graduates and award recipients and thank them for a job well done.”