The Douglas Shire has many people who do excellent work for the community and Lieutenant Andrew Petrack, who recently received the Australia Day Achievement Award, is someone who will inspire you based on his work ethic and can be described as a community leader.

The much sought-after award, which is rarely presented, is through Queensland Fire & Emergency Services (QFES). Petrack was nominated for the award by Rory Kelliher, Port Douglas Station Officer, and Mossman’s Captain Melissa Collins.

“The award was for the work I do in the community such as the high school scenario: teaching road crashes to Year 12 students; and I'm now a councillor for people aged between three and 18 who have a fascination with fire. I was also recognised for being a great mentor to my fellow crew up here and in the northern command,” Petrack said.

To add to his hectic schedule, he is a RAAP (Roads Attitudes Action Planning) presenter.

“This entails going to High schools from Mossman to Thursday Island, where I educate Year 11 students on the effects and consequences of driving behaviour, educate the drivers and passengers, and give them the tools and skills to speak up if they are feeling unsafe in a car,” said Petrack. 

In August he became a FFF practitioner (Fight Fire Fascination). There are only five in the Cairns and northern area.

“This program is aimed at children aged between three and 18 who have a fascination with fire and have become fire starters.

“We do three to four visits with them, and they learn about safe fire practices, safe evacuation practices and plans, actions and consequences that occur from starting fires.

“They also get to view videos. There is a broad range of ages and we specialise in working with all age groups,” he said.

Petrack said he was honoured to receive the award adding it's great to know that the hard work you put into the community is recognised.

“And yes, it was a surprise. I was humbled when I received the letter. It's not something you think about getting nominated for.”

Petrack started in the fire service 10 years ago and it did not long to feel the passion to get involved with community safety and awareness programs in the community.

“I enjoy the education part: educate and give people the knowledge, skills & tools to make better choices when it comes to road safety, safe driving, fire safety and other circumstances that can have an impact to themselves and other people's lives.”

Port Douglas Station Officer, Rory Kelliher, nominated his colleague for the extra lengths he goes to around the community, particularly the huge undertaking of organising the annual car crash simulation for year 12 students at Mossman State High School.

“The simulation really highlights the need to be safe on the roads,” he said.

“The ongoing effects of that, for students who have just got their license, is huge.

“He is an outstanding individual who has provided a huge number of services to the community and no award really reflects the amount of commitment and effort he has put in over the years,” Kelliher said.