First responders in the spotlight at the 2024 ISPS HANDA Australian Open Golf Tournament
There are 370,000 emergency service workers in Australia. They are the people you hope you never need, but who show up in our darkest moments. They are trained and ready to help in life-threatening situations, where time is of the essence.
The demand for these services is relentless, and its members must be ready for any eventuality at any time and any day of the year. It’s hard to conceive of the dedication required to do that job.
Paul Field AM is an Australian musician, filmmaker, and author. He is best known as one of the founding members of the Sydney pub rock band, The Cockroaches, The Field Brothers, and for 24 years the Managing Director for the children’s music group, and Australia’s biggest entertainment export, The Wiggles. The experience of those on the front lines has always been a subject close to Paul’s heart. In 2017, he published Gimme Shelter, a collection of stories of courage and endurance from first responders and military personnel.
Paul has been the driving force in pulling together ten of Australia’s most talented songwriters and performers to create an album called We See You. To put a face to the people who risk their own lives, to protect the lives of others.
As an ambassador for Fortem, Australia’s leading not-for-profit organisation dedicated to supporting the well-being of first responders, he understands the sacrifices they make to support Australian communities. Who amongst us isn’t moved by iconic images of firefighters, police, the S.E.S., paramedics calmly rendering lifesaving aid, or helicopters winching someone to safety?
Who could forget the exceptional bravery of Inspector Amy Scott, as she pursued an assailant through Westfield Bondi Junction. She put her own life at risk to ensure that no more lives were lost on that tragic day. Her comments after the event stand as a reminder that there are real people under the uniform. “At the end of the day, we’re all ordinary people who are sometimes called to do extraordinary things.”
Music can tell a story in a very special way. The songwriters on this album have all focused on an area that means something special to them. The songs have been written and performed in a way that will engage and educate. We hope this will inspire a new generation to choose a vocation that makes a real difference in our community. For those who have already been called to the job, we hope you see it as a heartfelt thank you for all you do.
“The album title, We See You, is to acknowledge all the people who do extraordinary jobs every day and the families who stand behind them. Music can uplift, inspire, and heal. I know this album will do all of these things”. Paul Field AM, Fortem Australia Ambassador
“Our first responders are there when we need them the most, and the fact that these absolute legends of Australian music have grouped together to not only recognise the work they do but to also support the work that Fortem Australia does in supporting our first responders is truly humbling. I commend Paul and each of the artists who have contributed to this remarkable album.” Mick Willing APM, CEO, Fortem Australia
The title track from the album, We See You, from award-winning country artist, Kevin Bennett is out now through ABC Music with the album to follow on November 22. Click the Link below to listen.
We See You – Album track list
We See You – Kevin Bennett
No One Needs to Hurt Alone – Felicity Urquhart & Josh Cunningham
Amelia’s Song- Little Quirks
Ghosts – Shane Nicholson
Under Water – Dog Trumpet
If Your Daddy Makes It Home Tonight – Elly-May Barnes
When I’m Strong Enough – The Field Brothers
Graduation Day – John Schumann
Rose Of No Man’s Land – Luca Brasi
Volunteer Firefighter – The Wiggles
