QCS officer nominated as everyday hero

Lotus Glen Correctional Centre’s Custodial Corrections Officer, Mr Matthew Cawdell, has been nominated as an everyday hero in this year’s QBANK Everyday Heroes Awards.

Mr Cawdell has been nominated for his volunteer work as Group Leader of the Holloways Beach State Emergency Service Unit.

During March 2018, Mr Cawdell travelled to the remote community of Pormpuraaw to help with the recovery effort following Cyclone Nora crossing the Gulf of Carpentaria coastline.

Lotus Glen Correctional Centre’s Acting General Manager, Gabrielle Payne, said Mr Cawdell was one of many custodial officers who had a passion for helping people, whether inside a prison or in the community.

“It’s not surprising to hear how Mr Cawdell has gone above and beyond to give help where it’s needed outside of his role here at the centre,” Ms Payne said.

“Our custodial officers, including Mr Cawdell, provide a thankless role in a challenging environment and are critical in rehabilitating prisoners.

“I thank our custodial officers for their professionalism and pledge to keeping Queenslanders safe, and I congratulate Mr Cawdell on his nomination.”

The QBANK Everyday Heroes Awards celebrates front line public safety agency officers who have contributed to a better and safer Queensland by making a positive difference in the community.

Mr Cawdell said he was grateful to be nominated for the award.

“Being nice, helpful and kind is what we are meant to do in this world. If we all did our part to help those in need, the Queensland community would be a better and safer place to live.

“Nothing that I do could be made possible without the support of my family, colleagues and friends.”

For more information about the awards, visit www.qbank.com.au.