What’s happening?
Mount Cotton firefighter Lochlan Patterson has been named a finalist in the QBANK Everyday Heroes Awards, recognising his commitment to community education and colleague wellbeing.
Lochlan, a Station Officer at Mount Cotton Road Fire Station, is one of 23 finalists selected from across Queensland for the 10th annual awards, which celebrate exceptional achievements in the emergency services and public sectors.
Why it Matters?
The award highlights Lochlan’s significant impact on community resilience and the support he provides to fellow firefighters during their best and toughest days.
Lochlan’s role as a Peer Support Officer, which involves anything from assisting new recruits to checking in on experienced firefighters after significant events, is highly valued by his colleagues, including those who nominated him for the award.
By the Numbers
Lochlan is one of 23 finalists selected from across the state for the 10th annual awards.
The six award categories are Achievement, Ownership, Dedication, Working Together, Excellence, and the Young Everyday Hero Award.
Zoom in
After ten years as a Queensland Police Officer, Lochlan joined the Queensland Fire Department to continue following his passion for serving the Redlands and Logan communities and helping people from all walks of life.
Lochlan stated, “On the job, we take control of fire situations, but I think the most important thing we do is educate the community, and it’s rewarding to answer their questions and help them build resilience.”
“We get to mingle with a diverse range of people from different cultures, religions, and people with different needs, which can be challenging, but it’s also a very fulfilling part of the job,” he added. Highlighting the vital role of emergency workers, Lochlan said, “Firefighters and all emergency service workers are pillars of strength for people on someone’s hardest day, and we can offer a sense of direction and offer guidance to help them on their way.”
Lochlan’s role as a Peer Support Officer involves supporting his colleagues, from guiding new recruits to checking in on seasoned firefighters after significant events.
Emphasising his commitment to his peers’ wellbeing, Lochlan explained, “There are certain people in the community who are drawn to emergency service roles and in my time I’ve been afforded some guidance and assistance, so I see this role as a logical way of giving back.”
“As a Peer Support Officer, I’m available 24/7 to anyone in the fire service just to have a chat,” Lochlan said. “Whenever there is a critical incident, it’s important we talk to each of the crew members to make sure they are alright, and if not, show them how to get some assistance through local councillors and psychologists.”
Zoom Out
The QBANK Everyday Heroes Awards celebrate exceptional individuals across various sectors, including police, fire, health, ambulance, corrections, public service, education, and volunteers.
Winners will be selected by a panel of highly respected judges.
Local Impact
Lochlan’s efforts in the Redlands and Logan communities have built connections with diverse groups, enhancing public safety and awareness.
His focus on community education and peer support plays a crucial role in building resilience and well-being within the community and his team.
What to look for next?
Winners will be recognised at the awards dinner on 11 October 2024 at the W Hotel Brisbane, where they will receive $2,000 deposited into a QBANK account and an additional $2,000 donated to a charity of their choice.
Lochlan expressed humility about being named a finalist, saying, “I feel honoured that I have imparted part of myself in someone’s life at this level, but at the same time, I’m just doing my job.”
For more information, visit QBANK Everyday Heroes.
