As part of a partnership with state-owned utilities Energy Queensland and Powerlink, State Emergency Service (SES) volunteers in the North Coast Region have received more than $40,000 worth of new equipment.
Minister for Fire and Emergency Services, Craig Crawford, said new equipment ensures the region’s orange army can face a range of emergencies during the severe weather season.
“Since 2015, we have enjoyed a great relationship with Energy Queensland and today [30 January] is a fantastic example of our volunteers reaping the rewards of this partnership,” Mr Crawford said.
“Volunteers are receiving brand new power tools, defibrillators, battery powered lighting, stretchers and thermal imaging equipment.
“We know the SES was front and centre at last year’s Peregian bushfires so it’s great to see these selfless volunteers even better equipped to face disaster.”
The handover took place at a special event at the Noosa Shire Council Hub to recognise emergency personnel who fought fires on the frontline during the unprecedented 2019 bushfire season.
“What an extraordinary job these men and women have done over the last 12 months saving lives, homes, businesses and wildlife,” Mr Crawford said.
Queensland Fire and Emergency Services (QFES) Assistant Commissioner, Andrew Short, said the sponsorship had fantastic outcomes for both the SES and community.
“Being an SES volunteer is no easy feat – it requires hours of training, dedication and courage to respond in the very worst of conditions,” Mr Short said.
“Anything we can do to ensure our volunteers are better prepared is a win for us, as well as the communities they serve.”
Energy Queensland Chief Executive Officer, Peter Scott, said it was fantastic to see volunteers receive new equipment after their hard work during a range of disasters.
“Every year, we see our SES volunteers doing amazing things for the Queensland community but already 2020 has seen them take their commitment to an extraordinary level,” Mr Scott said.
“Their support for the Rural Fire Service — of which many SES are also members of — during the bushfires and the way in which they’ve all rolled up their sleeves without question is nothing short of incredible.
“It’s because of their dedication we at Energy Queensland remain ardent advocates of Queensland’s SES volunteers and why we have continued to provide direct support in the form of new emergency equipment.”
Powerlink Executive General Manager, Gary Edwards, said he was pleased to support volunteers before the storm and cyclone season intensifies.
“Powerlink sees first-hand the vital contribution SES volunteers make to help keep communities safe during severe weather events and other emergency situations,” Mr Edwards said.
“Powerlink is proud to continue this partnership with Energy Queensland to deliver vital equipment that makes a positive difference.”
