Awards recognise top SES volunteers
THE thousands of volunteer hours from State Emergency Service members across the north were recognised at the launch of SES Week on Saturday.
One hundred of the 509 northern region volunteers were presented with meritorious service medals and clasps, diligent service medals and national emergency medals for their work during Tropical Cyclone Debbie and the 2019 North Queensland floods.
Townsville SES Group member Anthony Boyle was named the member of the year for his distinguished service through developing and using his skills and the remote
piloted aircraft service capability in the northern region.
Charters Towers group member Wally Thomasson was named regional trainer of the year.
SES northern regional manager Daryl Camp said Mr Thomasson had not only been instrumental in ensuring the Charters Towers group was well trained in all areas, but his dedication had extended to the entire region.
“In addition to his leadership and advocacy roles, Wally demonstrates dedication and passion towards improving the quality of training to members in his group and the northern region,” Mr Camp said.
“He works with and relates
well to all volunteer members and staff for all kinds of cases regardless of their rank or abilities and he’s always looking to help those who need assistance with any kind of development.”
The Charters Towers SES group was named Group/unit of the Year, with the Townsville SES Group given the Regional Response of the Year award.
Member for Thuringowa Aaron Harper presented the awards on behalf of Fire and Emergency Services Minister Mark Ryan.
Mr Harper said SES mem
bers were revered in the community for their work.
“These volunteers are unpaid and put their uniform on in times of incredible challenge,” Mr Harper said.
“I know in North Queens
land we have some of the best people that often respond to these emergencies.
“I thank our SES volunteers and staff for their dedication and contribution, and who wear the orange uniform with pride.”
QFES Commissioner Greg Leach congratulated the award recipients for their outstanding work.
He thanked the members for helping communities prepare for weather events and get back on their feet following disasters.
The SES has about 6000 volunteers who perform a diverse range of functions.