Volunteers honoured: Minister calls for new SES recruits

Emergency Services Minister Neil Roberts has officially launched Mackay’s 2008 SES recruitment campaign as part of a special volunteer medal ceremony at the Mackay Botanic Gardens.

Mr Roberts said almost 20 per cent of Queensland’s 6400 volunteers came from central Queensland.

“SES volunteers come from all walks of life and are whom their communities rely on in times of need,” Mr Roberts said.

“The commitment central Queensland SES volunteers have for their community is second to none and this was clearly visible during the Mackay floods in February this year.

“I witnessed the stoic response from volunteers and was aware that in many cases volunteers responded to the needs of others, even though they were also victims of the flooding.

“Today we also recognise 28 of those volunteers with meritorious medals who have 400 years service between them.”

Member for Whitsunday Jan Jarratt said this year’s recruitment campaign was about making sure the residents of central Queensland continue to have the vital support of the SES in a flood, storm or cyclone.

“The campaign is part of a long-term strategy to attract and retain volunteer numbers into the future so the SES can continue to provide a strong and fast response to disaster situations,” Ms Jarratt said.

“When SES volunteers pull on their orange uniforms their focus is on helping others and being the best they can for their communities.

“Skills like heights training, flood boat operation and chain saw training are all practical skills which you can use in your everyday life.”

Ms Jarratt said SES volunteers were being encouraged to engage with their local communities about the values and satisfaction of belonging to such a committed network of people.

“Nothing we can do with ever properly compensate Emergency Services volunteers for the sacrifices they make when serving the community.

“It is testament to their community spirit and willingness to help others.”

“We are asking our current volunteers to promote the organisation, maybe bring a friend to training and inform the community about the SES with a range of communications materials including postage paid post cards, posters, T-Shirts and information booklets.

“I would encourage anyone who is considering or who has ever thought about joining the SES to speak to their local unit, ring 1300 369 003 or visit www.emergency.qld.gov.au/ses.”

The SES is strongly supported by major partner NRMA Insurance.

Media Contact: Brendan Connell    0437 837 976