Bundaberg Named SES Unit Of Year

Bundaberg State Emergency Service (SES) has granted a significant honour, named Queensland’s unit of the year.

The unit received the prestigious award at the SES State Awards on Saturday afternoon in Brisbane, which marked the end of SES week across Queensland.

Members were recognised for their outstanding leadership, innovation, and commitment to enhancing capability, professionalism, and operational readiness.

Heavily involved in the region’s preparedness and response to flooding across the Wide Bay, the unit, consisting of 133 members, dedicated 5,025 operational hours to the service during the last financial year, and responded to 788 calls for help.

The unit has delivered major developmental initiatives, including a five-month Recruitment and Mentoring Pilot Program, which was locally led and strengthened capability, cohesion and operational effectiveness across the unit.

Members have engaged in extended training heights safety, land search and storm damage training, which will better equip the unit ahead of the upcoming high risk weather season.

North Coast Regional Director Angela Pappas said the Bundaberg unit is extremely deserving of the honour.

“We are so proud of our Bundaberg members and their contribution to the region,” Regional Director Pappas said.

“The unit’s conduct over the past 12 months exemplifies the SES values of Respect, Integrity and Connection at a level that clearly exceeds standard volunteer expectations.”

Area Controller Jenny Millers said the award was a fitting nod to the members’ hard work and dedication.

“Our members sacrifice their time and offer their expertise, which all contributes to keeping the Bundaberg community safe,” Ms Millers said.

“Whether it’s storms, floods, land searches or police operations, our local unit is always ready to lend a hand, day or night, rain, hail or shine.”