SES recruits volunteers for the future

A simulated rescue from a building collapse at the Cairns Convention Centre today gave Cairns residents a taste of life in the State Emergency Service (SES).

The display formed part of the celebrations for the launch of Far Northern Queensland's SES regional recruitment campaign to increase volunteer numbers, launched by Emergency Services Minister Neil Roberts.

He said 1029 of Queensland's 6400 volunteers came from far north Queensland with 230 in the Cairns area alone.

"SES volunteers come from all walks of life but all have one common goal which is to strive to be 'harder, faster, better and stronger' for their communities in times of need," he said.

"The commitment far northern Queensland SES volunteers have for their community is second to none and this is evidenced by the sheer amount of hours that have been put back into the region by these people.

"Last financial year volunteers in the far northern region gave almost 7000 hours of their time which in today's busy, fast-paced society is an incredible contribution."

Mr Roberts said this year's recruitment campaign was about making sure the residents of far north Queensland continue to have the vital support of the SES in a flood, storm, cyclone or disaster.

"The campaign is part of a long-term strategy to increase volunteer numbers and sustain the current number of volunteers well into the future so the SES can continue to provide a strong and fast response to disaster situations."

Emergency Management Queensland (EMQ) Regional Director Wayne Coutts said the SES was a popular volunteering option because it offered practical skills including training, adventure, mateship and a strong community focus.

"When SES volunteers pull on their orange uniforms their focus is on helping others and being the best they can for their communities," Mr Coutts said.

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

Mr Roberts 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.

"We are asking volunteers to promote the organisation through their own social and community networks. Our long-term major partner NRMA Insurance has helped us have a range of materials, including postage paid post cards, posters, T-Shirts and information booklets, available for distribution.

"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."

Media Contact – Corinne Mulholland (Minister’s office) – 0411 964 462