Queensland SES to assist with NSW Recovery Operations

Following a request from the NSW State Emergency Service, a 70-strong contingent of Queensland SES volunteers will depart for the flood and storm affected areas of NSW.

Emergency Services Minister Pat Purcell said the task force will consist of 70 SES volunteers and 4 Emergency Management Queensland support crew.

“We know the energy and effort involved when facing disasters such as this,” Mr Purcell said.

“Our crews are well trained and well prepared and we’re happy to be able to lend a hand to our colleagues over the border. Australians have a proud record of helping others in need and volunteering is an important part of our culture.”

According to Emergency Management Queensland Executive Director Frank Pagano, the task force will be deployed in the affected areas around Gosford and Wyong.

“Our crews know what the affected communities in NSW are facing and there was no hesitation when we asked for volunteers.”

“A lot will be asked of them but I know they’ll respond to whatever they’re faced with and will do their very best for the families and businesses they’re assisting.”

The volunteers assembled from throughout the South East Region including Pine Rivers, Caboolture, Brisbane, Esk, Logan, Gold Coast, Ipswich, Toowoomba, Laidley, Gatton, Warwick, Goombungee and the North Coast.

Many of the volunteers are Cyclone Larry veterans. The assembled crews are trained in chainsaw operations along with general SES duties.

Media are invited to attend the briefing.

When: 3.30 pm – SES task force assemble at Kedron Park

4.00 pm – Task force briefing – Kedron park auditorium

Where: Emergency Services complex

Park Rd entrance

Kedron Park

Media contact:

EMQ Media 3247 8976, A/H pager 3830 5699

Minister’s Office –Brendan Connell 07 3247 8992, 0437 837 976