- The Crisafulli Government joined SES volunteers to celebrate 50 years of service to Queensland communities.
- More than 5,300 SES volunteers continue to play a critical role in disaster response and community safety across Queensland.
- The Crisafulli Government is backing SES volunteers with record support after a decade of neglect under Labor.
The Crisafulli Government has today honoured five decades of service by Queensland’s State Emergency Service, recognising the thousands of volunteers who have protected communities through floods, storms, cyclones, searches and emergencies since 1976.
The milestone was marked with a special 50-year anniversary parade through Brisbane’s CBD, bringing together current and former SES members, staff and families to celebrate the organisation’s proud history.
The Crisafulli Government is backing SES with better facilities, more resources and stronger support after a decade of decline under the former Labor Government.
Since the election, SES volunteer numbers have increased by almost 300 members, with the Crisafulli Government investing more than $63 million to strengthen SES capability across Queensland.
The Crisafulli Government has delivered new purpose-built vehicles, enhanced support programs for local governments and new facilities such as the Deception Bay SES depot, helping strengthen Queensland’s disaster preparedness and response capability.
Minister for Police and Emergency Services Dan Purdie said the anniversary was an opportunity to recognise generations of Queenslanders who had volunteered their time to help others.
“For 50 years, the SES has embodied the very best of Queensland – ordinary people doing extraordinary things for their communities,” Minister Purdie said.
“When disaster strikes, Queenslanders know the Orange Army will answer the call.
“Today is about recognising every volunteer who has pulled on the orange uniform over the past five decades and thanking them for the difference they have made to countless lives.”
Today’s celebrations also recognised SES Deputy Group Leader Terrence Chapman, one of the organisation’s longest-serving members.
Mr Chapman joined the Queensland Civil Defence Organisation on 30 August 1974 and still proudly holds member number 99.
“My first activation was storm damage in December 1974 and I’ll never forget how rewarding it felt to be part of a team helping the community during such a challenging time,” Mr Chapman said.
“It has been a privilege to serve alongside generations of dedicated volunteers who have given their time to keep Queenslanders safe.
“The SES has shaped my life in so many ways – I even met my wife through the organisation.”
Outgoing SES Chief Officer Mark Armstrong said the SES remained one of Queensland’s most important volunteer organisations.
“This 50th anniversary is a chance for all Queenslanders to celebrate the incredible work of these everyday heroes who give so much to their communities,” outgoing Chief Officer Armstrong said.
“It is fitting to mark this milestone by recognising the selfless contributions of SES members past and present, whose dedication has helped keep Queenslanders safe for half a century.”
Queensland’s SES currently consists of 5,358 volunteers and 213 staff operating across seven regions, 76 units and 290 groups, providing critical support to communities throughout the State.
