Xstrata Copper, PIQ Logistics, The Townsville Hospital and Passions of Paradise have been named as Queensland’s most supportive employers of Defence Reservists.

Parliamentary Secretary for Defence, Senator David Feeney, congratulated the Queensland employers who were acknowledged last night for their outstanding support.

“The Defence Employer Support Awards acknowledge the outstanding contribution made by individual employers in supporting Defence and its personnel. Without their support it would be very difficult for Navy, Army and Air Force Reservists to make such an important contribution to the defence of the nation,” said Senator Feeney.

PIQ Logistics Operations Manager Andrew Godwyn said their organisation employed Corporals Stephen Wooler and David Coulter and were ‘delighted we are able to provide support to these staff members in their military service and will continue this practice in the future’.

 “The training provided to these employees whilst being active Reservists has given them leadership, problem solving and decision making skills that contribute to the day to day running of our company and has increased their abilities in the workplace,” said Mr Godwyn.

“The small amount of time we lose by releasing these employees to perform their Army Reserve duties is more than made up for by the skills obtained.”

Small Business category winner and Managing Director of Passions of Paradise Alan Wallish said his Reservist employee, Private Scott Garden, brought ‘passion and enthusiasm to his job’.

“We have found that the experience he has gained through Reserve service fits neatly with our small company,” said Mr Wallish.

“In Private Garden’s case, he is directly responsible for the logistics involved in taking 25,000 people annually to the Great Barrier Reef. Without a doubt, being a Reservist has had a great impact on his organisational skills and the need for team work.”

Major Category Winners

Government: The Townsville Hospital, Queensland Health, Townsville

Small Business: Passions of Paradise, Cairns

Medium Business: PIQ Logistics, Rockhampton

Large Business: Xstrata Copper, Mount Isa

The awards were hosted by the Defence Reserves Support Council - Queensland at Gallipoli Barracks in Enoggera.

For more information about the Employer Support Awards and the support available for ADF Reserves and their employers go to: www.defencereservessupport.gov.au

Media Contacts: Senator Feeney’s Office  - Dimity Paul 0477 334 324

 Cadet, Reserve and Employer Support Division - Deanna Nott 0438 013 548