Dedicated State Emergency Service (SES) volunteers from Brisbane Region were recognised for their efforts to help Queenslanders at an awards ceremony today at the Emergency Services Complex, Kedron.
Minister for Fire and Emergency Services, Mark Ryan MP, said the event recognised SES members, groups and units who provided outstanding service to their community in times of need.
“The Queensland SES has a proud history of helping, protecting and educating our communities,” Mr Ryan said.
“SES Week is an important event in our calendar, as we honour the hard work and outstanding efforts of staff and volunteers across Queensland.
“Our volunteers give up time they may spend with family to help the community prepare and recover from disasters.
“I thank our SES volunteers and staff for their dedication and contribution.
“To back our SES, the government has increased its funding commitment this year by over seven percent bringing it to record levels.
“We will continue to support the SES now and into the future.”
The annual event provides an opportunity to honour the hard work and celebrate the outstanding efforts of SES members across the state.
QFES Commissioner Greg Leach congratulated the award recipients for their outstanding work with Queensland communities.
“Our SES volunteers selflessly donate their time to assist the community, often travelling long distances.
“To those thinking of volunteering with QFES, I encourage them to take the next step and enquire with their local unit and learn about the many roles available.”
“I thank all SES members for helping their communities prepare for weather events and get back on their feet following disasters.”
Suncorp CEO Steve Johnson said they are proud to be the Principal Community Partner of the Queensland SES.
“SES volunteers are a vital part of the community, particularly when the storms come or when people need search and rescue, and they do so much more supporting communities in many ways.
“On behalf of the Suncorp Group I thank the SES volunteers for that important community contribution that is consistent with the Suncorp spirit.”
The SES has approximately 6000 volunteers who perform a diverse range of functions when responding to local, state and national emergencies.
Brisbane Region SES Week Award winners:
Regional Member of the Year – Alex Johnson, Redland Bay SES Group
Regional Group/Unit of the Year – Brisbane City SES Unit
Highly Commended Regional Group/Unit of the Year – Arana Hills SES Group
Regional Operational Response of the Year – Bribie Island SES Group
Highly Commended Regional Operational Response of the Year – Redland SES Unit
Regional Trainer of the Year – Alan Peterson, Arana Hills SES Group
