- The partnership between SES, Energy Queensland and Powerlink Queensland was established in 2014.
- Minister Ryan thanks the two energy groups for their continued partnership.
- Northern Region SES volunteers received almost $23,000 in equipment.
State Emergency Service groups across Queensland (SES) will receive a combined $250,000 worth of equipment under its renewed partnership with Energy Queensland and Powerlink Queensland.
This year’s partnership has been boosted by an additional $50,000 thanks to an additional contribution from Powerlink Queensland.
The partnership reflects a long-standing supportive relationship between SES, Energy Queensland and Powerlink Queensland.
At a handover ceremony in Townsville, Northern Region SES Groups received almost $23,000 worth of equipment.
Equipment handed over included power tools, stretchers, chainsaws and lighting, as well as other valuable items.
Quotes attributable to the Minister for Fire and Emergency Services Mark Ryan:
“This enduring partnership makes all the difference for our volunteers when it comes time for them to face challenging situations,” Minister Ryan said.
“Whether they are responding to calls for help or supporting other agencies, SES volunteers are asked to perform a range of tasks to keep Queenslanders safe.
“The community relies on emergency services to be there when they need them most, and having the right equipment is vital to the work they do.”
Quotes attributable to QFES Northern Region Acting Assistant Commissioner Michael O’Neil:
“Our volunteers are at the ready to support the community through a range of emergencies, and having up-to-date equipment means they always have the right tools for the job,” Acting Assistant Commissioner O’Neil said.
“The hours that our SES dedicate to protecting Queensland communities is highly valued and appreciated.
Minister for Police and Corrective Services and Minister for Fire and Emergency Services The Honourable Mark Ryan MP
“The ongoing generosity of our partner organisations has helped the SES build capacity that has a direct and positive impact on communities across the state.”
Quotes attributable to Powerlink Queensland Chief Executive Leigh Pickering:
Powerlink Queensland Acting Chief Executive Leigh Pickering said supporting thousands of volunteers across Queensland was important for Powerlink.
“Powerlink is proud to double our support of this partnership program this year as it continues to make a significant difference to local Queensland communities when they need it most,” Ms Pickering said.
“Helping the community in times of disaster and seeing how community volunteers put this equipment to good use in responding to emergencies makes this partnership extremely rewarding for all involved.”
Quotes attributable to Energy Queensland Chief Executive Officer, Mr Peter Scott:
“Severe weather and natural disasters can often bring heartbreak to members of the communities they affect,” Mr Scott said.
“But when these community members see an army of SES volunteers commencing recovery work, there’s a feeling of comfort knowing that someone has their back during what seems like insurmountable clean up tasks ahead.
“SES volunteers are also a comfort to our Ergon and Energex crews. Because when our crews begin restoring power to disaster-affected regions, they know the SES volunteers are out there clearing roads cut by debris and keeping the community safely away from fallen powerlines.
“Their assistance helps our crews to restore the community’s power much faster and is why we’re proud to say thanks every year by providing the latest emergency recovery equipment directly to local SES groups around Queensland.”
Further information:
The handover event in Townsville is the first in the series of 10 similar events around the state.
