Award for Lockyer Valley rescue crews

Photo / Getty Images

Chopper crews who staged daring rescues after deadly floodwaters swept through Queensland's Lockyer Valley have been honoured with an international award.

The Emergency Management Queensland (EMQ) helicopter rescue service has received the Shephard Search and Rescue 2011 Crew Award at an international conference in the UK.

EMQ acting chief aircrew officer Greg Huppatz accepted the honour on behalf of crew members who plucked people to safety.

Emergency Services Minister Neil Roberts said their efforts in those harrowing hours in January were the difference between life and death for many.

"The skilled personnel overcame dreadful conditions to save the lives of 43 people who were left clinging to trees, cars and rooftops, with their homes and livelihoods all but washed away," he said.

"The red, blue and white choppers were a beacon of hope in the skies for many people, a ray of light on the bleakest of days."

EMQ assistant director-general Bruce Grady said there was great pride within the community for the life-saving efforts of the rescue crews.

"They showed utmost professionalism and true heroism in their line of work during the floods," he said in a statement.

"For that commitment, we are forever grateful."

Seventeen people lost their lives in the Lockyer Valley floods.

The chopper rescuers also picked up the Rescue of the Year award at a helicopter rescue conference in Florida last month.

- AAP