Mount Remarkable Firefighter Injury

The Hon. E.S. BOURKE (Minister for Emergency Services and Correctional Services, Minister for Autism, Minister for Recreation, Sport and Racing) (14:29): I seek leave to make a ministerial statement.

Leave granted.

The Hon. E.S. BOURKE: In the short time I have had the privilege of being in this role, I have already seen, firsthand, the incredible contribution our volunteer firefighters make in protecting our communities across the state.

Last night, I was advised that one of our CFS volunteers sustained burn injuries while responding to the Wilmington fire in the Mount Remarkable National Park, which remains closed. The firefighter is receiving medical attention, and their condition is being monitored. The wellbeing of our CFS volunteers—the men and women on the frontline who give up their time to keep South Australians safe—is a priority.

I am advised that all necessary care and support is in place for the member, their family and the wider CFS community. I have spoken to the CFS Chief Officer, Brett Loughlin, and he has informed me that this member is a pillar of the community, as so many of the CFS volunteers are. I am aware that the CFS Foundation, which supports members, also stands ready to assist. My thoughts are with the Region 4 members who are currently responding to this fire. I thank them for their incredible efforts, as well as other South Australian firefighters and volunteers who have travelled across the border to help fight significant fires in Victoria.

Personnel risk their own safety to protect ours, and I want their service to be recognised in my role. My thoughts, along with the thoughts of the entire government, are with the injured volunteer and their family as they go through this difficult time.