Queensland’s top SES volunteers honoured

Embargoed until 12pm Sunday (award recipients are unaware they have won)

The State Emergency Service (SES) unit involved in the Mackay floods early this year was recognised at the State Awards today, as part of SES Week 2008.

Mackay SES Unit was today awarded the SES Operational Response of the Year Award for its flood boat rescues while Ipswich SES Unit was recognised as the Unit of the Year at the award ceremony held at the Riverlife Adventure Centre at Kangaroo Point Cliffs.

Minister for Emergency Services Neil Roberts said Ipswich SES was awarded the Director-General’s Cup for consistent administration excellence and the professional operation of the SES Unit in support of the Emergency Services Cadet program and the Ipswich community.

“Ipswich SES has been actively involved in operations and community activities during 2008, volunteering a total of 9181 hours of service to the community,” Mr Roberts said.

“The unit has been involved in 1180 activations during the past year including providing much needed assistance to other emergency services in the Ipswich area.

“In September 2008, a severe weather event occurred in the Ipswich area resulting in over 600 requests for assistance. Even though it happened on a Sunday night, over half of the jobs were completed within 24 hours.

“This event demonstrates the depth of ability of the Ipswich SES Unit,” the Minister said.

Emergency Management Queensland (EMQ) Executive Director Frank Pagano said the Mackay SES Unit was awarded the Executive Director’s Shield for its flood boat rescue operation during the floods in Mackay earlier this year.

“The Mackay SES Unit has been recognised for its exceptional efforts during this year’s major rain and flooding event, which included tasks such as numerous flood boat rescues and community welfare,” Mr Pagano said.

“The response by Local Controller Justin Englert and his team is a credit to the unit and to all SES volunteers.

“The actions of the volunteers showed tremendous courage and endurance, which undoubtedly saved the lives of at least two people and exemplify the highest standards of SES Service.”

Minister Roberts said with SES week coming to an end he has been encouraged by the display of community appreciation for the volunteers.

“Organisations such as local councils, the State Government and the SES’ major sponsor NRMA do their part to make sure the SES is running efficiently but the support of the local community for our volunteers is what really keeps the ‘orange angels’ going,” he said.

“Community recognition really boosts morale and I has been great to see locals come out and support their local group during National SES Week.”

Media contact

Minister’s Office – Corinne Mulholland – 0419 786 114
Department of Emergency Services – 3247 8186