Karryn Dolan and Emma Jackson at Conquer the Corrugations last weekend.
WOLVERTON Station’s Emma Jackson said she “burst into tears” when she was informed that she was the winner of the 2022 RFDS Queensland Hero award.
Ms Jackson, who helped save the life of her friend Karryn Dolan in an epic six-hour struggle, was today named the state-wide winner of the $20,000 grant, sponsored by Ergon Energy.
RFDS Queensland CEO Meredith Staib congratulated Ms Jackson for her achievements.
“Emma’s bravery and never-give-up spirit, along with her dedication to her community is truly inspiring,” Ms Staib said.
“We’re proud to be able to recognise Emma’s achievements and the amazing work she does to support the region.
“Delivering healthcare and supporting communities is a team effort, which is why we are so incredibly grateful to have people like Emma on the ground each and every day.”
Ergon Energy retail executive general manager Ayesha Razzaq said Ms Jackson’s $20,000 could go towards a health or wellbeing initiative in the community.
“All of the nominations for this year’s Local Hero Awards were amazing, but Emma’s story of courage and determination was an absolute standout,” Ms Razzaq said.
“While her efforts to save a friend’s life were nothing short of heroic, the initiative she’s proposing to set up with this grant is also inspirational. I am so pleased that we will be able to help her to achieve her goal.”
Emma Jackson, left, wants to spend her $20,000 grant on an equine-assisted learning program at Wolverton Station.
Ms Jackson said she was honoured to be named the 2022 Queensland Hero and was already planning how she would use the grant to support the region.
“I am hoping to use the grant to help fund an equine-assisted learning program at Wolverton Station for communities and other properties across the Cape York region,” Emma said.
“I look forward to working with the RFDS and Ergon Energy Retail to develop this initiative further to benefit our community.”
