Congratulations to Narelle, QCSS Program Manager for Queensland, who has been recognised with the National Emergency Medal.
Narelle was recently awarded with the National Emergency Medal to recognise and celebrate her 20 years as a Red Cross Emergency Service volunteer! She was presented with the award by Governor-General, the Honourable Janette Young, at an official presentation in Queensland.
The National Emergency Medal recognises the incredible contributions of those who have provided service in nationally significant emergencies. The Medal was introduced to the Australian Honours system by the late Her Majesty The Queen when she visited Australia in October 2011.
Narelle’s volunteer work has spanned four different states and included emergencies including Cyclone Debbie, Cyclone Yasi, the bushfires in Yeppoon and the floods in Newcastle.
During these emergencies, Narelle worked in the Red Cross evacuation and recovery centres. She would assist in the centres and provide personal support to people who had been impacted or displaced by natural disasters.
Narelle said she was pleased to have received this award for her service.
“I’ve volunteered for a long time and while it has never been about awards for me, it was a pleasant surprise to be recognised for my contributions,” she said.
“I can’t give money, but I can give my time.'
"It’s important to me that I give back to the community and help make a difference.”
While Narelle’s service as a volunteer has occurred outside of her role at Life Without Barriers, she brings her emergency skills into her work.
“My volunteer work has certainly helped my professional development,” she said.
“I can better support people during and after emergencies which is a great asset to my skill set.
“It’s fantastic to work at Life Without Barriers who support my volunteering efforts by offering three days of Special Leave per year. This allows me to take paid time off to attend different emergencies where I am needed.”
On behalf of all of us at Life Without Barriers, we would like to congratulate Narelle for being awarded the National Emergency Medal. Thank you for all that you have done for different communities across Australia – we are very pleased to have you on our team!
