Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk and Minister for Fire and Emergency Services Mark Ryan have extended their deepest sympathies to the family, colleagues and friends of an SES volunteer who lost her life overnight trying to protect the community.
The SES volunteer was responding to a call for assistance from a family at Coolana whose home was in danger of being inundated when the tragedy happened.
The volunteer was in a vehicle that was swept off the road by floodwaters.
Three other volunteers were rescued, but tragically the woman could not be saved.
Queensland Fire and Emergency Services is focused on supporting the volunteer’s family, friends and colleagues during this difficult time.
The Premier said the tragedy highlighted the dangers our volunteers and frontline workers face when extreme weather events strike.
“My heart goes out to this SES volunteer’s family, colleagues and friends.
“This SES volunteer was out in the worst of the conditions trying to help her fellow Queenslanders.
“I also send my sincere condolences to the family and friends of the other people whose lives have been lost during this extreme weather event.
“This is a very difficult time.”
Minister Ryan said the volunteer’s family and colleagues would be provided with every possible support.
“This is a terrible tragedy for everyone concerned.
“Our SES volunteers are remarkable people, who selflessly give of themselves to help others.
“Tragically, this volunteer has made the ultimate sacrifice as she went to the assistance of her fellow Queenslanders.
“And tragically, other Queenslanders have lost their lives as this extreme weather event unfolds.
“This is a difficult time for many people in our community.
“I urge everyone to do everything possible to keep each other safe.”
