By Emily-Rose Toohey
Recent high school graduate Lachlan Wilson was awarded the Term 3 Volunteer Queensland Student award last month.
His volunteer work with the Karara Rural Fire Service earned him the recognition – an inspiring feat born from his motivation to help the Southern Downs region.
Lachlan’s mother Kerry Wilson was moved by his achievement and dedication to his work.
“I’m extremely proud; he’s done extremely well,” Ms Wilson said.
Lachlan’s journey with the fire brigade began at age 16 as a second generation firefighter in response to the 2019/2020 bushfire devastation.
Alongside his father and brother, Lachlan’s placement as a junior member taught him how to fight bushfires, use fire truck and safety equipment, and undertake professional industry training.
Karara Rural Fire Service First Officer Ian Clark said that Lachlan was a first responder to several incidents over the course of his membership.
“He gained a good groundwork in response and emergency,” First Officer Clark said.
“We’re really proud to have helped him through training and mentorship – this is the culture at Karara.”
Through this mentorship, Lachlan has emerged from his junior membership as a fully trained firefighter.
First Officer Clark said that this 16- to 18-year-old membership is a great way for young people to help the community, as the fire service covers a wide scope of incidents, not just bushfires.
Lachlan’s hard work and continued contributions as a member of the Karara Rural Fire Service were – and still are – in service of the wider community.
The now 18-year-old completed his secondary schooling last week after graduating from Warwick State High School.
