Today Queensland fire-fighters around the state gathered to remember the 50 serviceman who have died in the line of duty.

In Brisbane a service was held at St Brigid’s Church at Red Hill and offered time for reflection.

Charlotte Collins reports.

TRANSCRIPT

A minutes silence at 10am marked the start of the solemn ceremony.

Each year on the 10th of October, the service brings together the State’s fire-fighters and family and friends of the fallen.

As the honour roll was read, a bell sounded for each individual life lost, the most recent in 2012.

Ted Ireland, QFES: “May they all rest in eternal peace, in the knowledge that their sacrifice will always be remembered.”

Tearful family members watched on as wreaths were laid in memory of their late husbands and sons.

Jack Dempsey, Fire and Emergency Services Minister: “It’s a great day to be able to say thank-you to the families of those fire officers that have paid the ultimate sacrifice.”

It was a fitting moment for both operational and retired fire-fighters to pay their respects.

Today has been a reminder for all fire-fighters of the importance of safety in the line of duty, particularly heading into what has been forecast as an extended bush fire season.

Lee Johnson, QFES Commissioner: “We’ve done extensive preparations for this fire season, particularly with the instigation of what’s called ‘Operation Kilburn’ which is about doing hazard reduction and mitigation activities right across Queensland.”

It is hoped these precautions will ensure fire-fighters remain safe this summer.

Charlotte Collins, QUT News.