SES Week closes with honours at State Awards Ceremony

The Crisafulli Government has honoured Queensland’s finest State Emergency Service volunteers at the prestigious State Awards in Brisbane today, marking the close of SES Week 2025.

Finalists were drawn from winners of regional ceremonies held earlier this year, with award recipients recognised for their courage, dedication and service to their communities.

Minister for Police and Emergency Services Dan Purdie said the awards were a fitting tribute after a year where SES volunteers once again proved their value to Queensland communities. 

“This year I’ve had the privilege of meeting SES volunteers right across the state during three major weather events,” Minister Purdie said.

“In every corner of Queensland, I saw their bravery, selflessness and sheer determination to protect their communities.

“These awards are a chance to recognise that extraordinary spirit and to say thank you.”

State Award Winners:

• Minister’s Cup for Member of the Year  
  Steven Hayes, Redland City SES Unit, Brisbane Region: In recognition of outstanding service to the Redland City SES Unit, enhancing operations, training, preparedness, and collaboration. 
• Commissioner’s Cup for Unit/Group of the Year  
  Maryborough SES Group, North Coast Region: For distinguished service to the SES through continued growth and consistent capability in operational readiness.
• Chief Officer’s Shield for Operational Response of the Year 
  Banana SES Unit, Central Region: In recognition of exceptional dedication and teamwork during a challenging and complex vertical rescue operation within Robinson Gorge National Park.
• Director’s Cup for Young Member of the Year 
  Bethany Sarles, Holloways Beach SES Group, Far Northern Region: In recognition of steadfast dedication to the Holloways Beach SES Group and its community, exemplifying extraordinary service beyond expectations.
• Joyce Scorey Shield for Trainer of the Year 
  Nicole Bradley, Townsville SES Group, Northern Region: In recognition of exceptional dedication to the SES, continually going above and beyond to support SES Volunteer Trainers through mentorship, inclusion, collaboration, and communication.
• Suncorp Spirit of SES Winner 
  Jenny Wilson, Gympie SES Group, North Coast Group: For exemplifying the Spirit of SES through outstanding leadership, operational readiness, community engagement, and recruitment, strengthening resilience and trust during operations.
• Life Members Awards
  Julie Casey, South East Region
  Anthony Daniel, Brisbane Region
  Kristy Keddie, Central Region

Together, their service represents more than 100 years of commitment to the SES.

Acting Deputy Commissioner Chris Stream acknowledged the ongoing support and dedication from SES members.

“SES teams are by our sides through police operations, land searches, cyclones, storms, and floods, and today outstanding SES members have been recognised for their courage and support,” Acting Deputy Commissioner Stream said.

“The SES doesn’t just work alongside us – they are an integral part of the team, ensuring the safety and wellbeing of all Queenslanders.”

Chief Officer Mark Armstrong celebrated the resilience and spirit of SES staff and volunteers.

“I want to thank every SES member across Queensland for their unwavering dedication, resilience, and commitment to keeping our communities safe,” Chief Officer Armstrong said.

"These awards are not just a celebration of individual excellence – they’re a reflection of the incredible strength and unity of the entire SES family across Queensland.”

SES Week, held from 18 to 24 August, celebrates the outstanding contribution of SES members and volunteers across Queensland.

ENDS