QBank Everyday Heroes Awards 2023

Helping people is part of our jobs, but those of us who go above and beyond to help people in need make a world of difference.

Three QAS paramedics were recognised as finalists for their extraordinary work at the QBANK Everyday Hero Awards on Friday 27 October.

Byron Tyrer, Vaughan Mason and Emma Williams were among 22 finalists across five categories, with Byron and Vaughan being honoured with wins.

The awards recognise exceptional people within Queensland Police, Fire, Health, Corrections, Justice and the Public Service who have gone above and beyond in the line of duty.

Byron Tyrer (Russell Island Station)

Dedication Award winner

On 6 August, a father and his five sons were tragically killed in a devastating house fire on Russell Island. Advanced Care Paramedic Byron Tyrer was the first on the scene, and his efforts that day undoubtedly helped save lives.

Byron’s prior experience as a firefighter and police officer helped him assess the scene and quickly help to rescue people in neighbouring properties as the fire spread, risking his own life in the process.

He didn’t hesitate to run into a house that was already alight, assisting four people and multiple pets.

Byron recently received a Commissioner’s Commendation for his bravery and quick action and said he feels humbled to win the Dedication Award.

“As a paramedic we enter people’s lives in some of the most difficult circumstances and work to provide life-saving interventions to get people the best care possible,” Byron said.

“I am rewarded each and every day knowing that someone I have treated receives the care they need, and that I did everything possible to get the right outcome for my patients.”

Vaughan Mason (Baralaba Station)

Working Together Award winner

In February, 78-year-old man John Lawson became trapped in a grain silo at a Baralaba property. Local emergency services and community members banded together to save him, including OIC Vaughan Mason.

“We could tell he was in a world of hurt, in grain basically up to his eyes, so we got up there and started digging around so he could breathe,” Vaughan said.

John was saved through a combined effort, earning Vaughan and his QPS colleagues Wylie Stel and Callam Moriarty praise for their effectiveness of their teamwork in a high-pressure situation.

“We’re all so ecstatic about the recognition, and hats off to everyone, even those outside, because it was just such an amazing effort,” he said.

Vaughan's care for his community extends well beyond geography as he volunteers many hours as a Peer Support Officer and is a Cultural Champion with the Cultural Safety Network.

Emma Williams (Kawana Station)

Achievement Award finalist

In 2022, Kawana Advanced Care Paramedic Emma Williams embarked on a 1700km trek from Alice Springs to Broome to fundraise to improve healthcare accessibility for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Communities.

This year, Emma once again travelled a great distance for a good cause, this time cycling 2500km solo from Alice Springs to Alexandra Headland to support QAS Legacy.

“As a paramedic we are constantly taking care of loved ones for other people in the community, and I wanted to give back to my colleagues who also need help during these difficult times,” Emma said.

Emma’s dedication to helping others extends beyond these journeys.

As an Indigenous Liaison Officer and QAS Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Leadership Committee member, she is highly involved in community engagement and improving the lives of people across the state.

Emma has thanked her support network for her nomination and recognition as a finalist for Achievement Award.

“I believe that this journey to being a finalist is thanks to so many amazing people around me, as our successes are often only possible due to the sacrifices that others make to help us,” she said.