The Gympie region SES Volunteers were worth their weight in Gympie gold before, during and after the flood events in 2022.
They responded not only to calls for assistance from stranded motorists and home owners, but they were instrumental in ensuring a connection on both sides of the river for urgent medical care and supplies.
Then, when the massive clean up began, these exhausted folk stepped up again to help with the monumental clean up.
They were also some of the boots on the ground, searching for any trace of the people who were tragically killed as a result of some of the worst flooding our region has ever seen.
They were filling sand bags.
They were erecting road closure signs.
They were carrying people from their homes as the flood waters swirled around them.
This week was SES Week, where statewide Queensland’s volunteers in orange were being honoured for their outstanding efforts in helping their communities prepare and respond to emergencies.
Queenslanders are being encouraged to show their support for SES volunteers and prepare their homes for severe weather season.
Emergency Services Minister Mark Ryan said SES Volunteers are invaluable.
“Queensland’s SES volunteers play a vital role in keeping their communities safe and prepared for when disaster strikes,” he said.
“They have spent more than 92,000 hours responding to a range of incidents in the last year, on top of more than 330,000 hours of training and preparation.
“These are remarkable efforts and demonstrate the true dedication of our frontline volunteers.
“The SES would not exist without the generosity of thousands of members. It’s my pleasure to celebrate these outstanding men and women and pay tribute to everything they do to keep us safe.”
QFES Commissioner Greg Leach said the support they get for the SES volunteers is beyond measure.
“The hard work of our SES volunteers can’t be overstated,” he said.
“I want to thank each of the thousands of volunteers spread across more than 300 groups who dedicate their time and skills to help keep Queensland safe and resilient.
“SES volunteers can be called upon during floods, storms, land searches, road crashes and vertical rescues and often their response can mean the difference between life and death.
“Volunteers don’t seek praise or a pat on the back, but the impact of their efforts deserves to be recognised. I would like to thank every SES volunteer for their incredible spirit and goodwill.”
Suncorp Group CEO Steve Johnston said Suncorp was proud of its continued partnership with the Queensland SES.
“The Queensland SES is always there for the community, particularly during the tough times whether it be storms, search and rescues or natural disasters,” he said.
“Through our partnership, Suncorp is proud to be there for the Queensland SES through community engagement and support for much-needed equipment which means the volunteers can continue to help Queenslanders when they need it the most.
“We are also pleased to host this year’s State Awards Ceremony at our Brisbane Heritage Lanes headquarters.
“On behalf of Suncorp, I want to thank all the Queensland SES volunteers for their tireless efforts throughout the year and look forward to having their enormous contribution to the community recognised at this year’s awards ceremony.”
To join the SES, please visit www.qfes.qld.gov.au/careers-and-volunteering for more information.
The State SES awards ceremony will be held at 2pm on Saturday 16 September, Suncorp Heritage Lanes 80 Ann Street, Brisbane.
