Bundaberg State Emergency Service (SES) has been 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.
North Coast Regional Director Angela Pappas said the Bundaberg unit is extremely deserving of the honour.
“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,” Ms. Pappas said.
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.”
