NEW SES CADET GROUPS SUPPORT REGIONAL YOUTH

Emergency Services Minister, Mick Veivers, has announced the establishment of two new State Emergency Services (SES) Cadet groups in Queensland.

Tambo and Sarina have approached the Department to establish new groups this financial year.

"The two new groups bring the total number of new SES Cadet units in the state so far this year to eight," the Minister said.

"We're very pleased with the level of interest in establishing these groups throughout Queensland.

"These two groups follow those recently established in Charleville and Mackay through Queensland's Education Youth Action Program which is being trialed in schools."

The new Tambo and Sarina groups are expected to attract over 50 Cadets, and more are expected to join soon after units are formed in those centres.

The SES Cadet program gives young Queenslanders between 12 and 16 the chance to learn new skills to help their communities.

"The Minister said the scheme would teach young people skills which foster teamwork, responsibility and self-reliance.

"It's also great fun, as the Cadets get the opportunity to learn bushcraft and navigation skills, go abseiling, build flying foxes, learn map reading, first aid and a range of other skills.

"The young people who go through the Cadet scheme play a valuable role in raising disaster awareness within their communities, and many will play a future role in the SES.

"This program helps instill good values in our young people which will stand them in good stead in later life," Mr Veivers said.