Firefighter joins volunteers on cruise ship

Volunteer firefighter Mr Garry Best and his wife Eve of Woy Woy joined nearly 40 emergency services volunteers from Australia's bushfire and flood emergencies this summer on Queen Mary 2 when the Cunard flagship made her entry into Sydney Harbour.

Sailing from Brisbane as Cunard's guests were volunteers from the NSW Rural Fire Service, Tasmania Fire Service, Victoria Country Fire Authority and the Queensland State Emergency Service, all of which were at the forefront of natural disasters this summer.

Cunard president and managing director Mr Peter Shanks said Queen Mary 2's Salute to the Summer Heroes allowed the community to acknowledge the volunteers as well as the overall contribution of volunteer organisations.

"Queen Mary 2 makes a huge impact wherever she goes and we are delighted she can play a part in marking the service and sacrifice of volunteers who routinely defend and protect their communities," Mr Shanks said.

Rural Fire Service Commissioner Mr Shane Fitzsimmons said: "All our volunteers join up to help support and protect their community in times of need."

"They work and train hard throughout the year and are always willing to lend a hand, despite the fact this means they'll be away from their jobs, homes, family and friends.

"It is great that their work and sacrifices are recognised and applauded by so many in NSW and indeed, throughout Australia."

Media Release, 7 Mar 2013

David Jones, Carnival Australia