Redland City, September 19, 2023 – The Redland City State Emergency Service (SES) Unit has once again distinguished itself on the state stage, securing two prestigious awards during the Queensland SES Awards held in Brisbane on Saturday, September 16, 2023, as part of SES Week.
Sidrah Harcourt of the Redland Bay SES Group achieved the remarkable distinction of being named the inaugural Queensland SES Young Member of the Year. Meanwhile, Alexandra Baines, hailing from the Cleveland SES Group, received the coveted Spirit of SES Award
Achievements praised
Redland City Mayor and Chair of the Local Disaster Management Group, Karen Williams, proudly noted that this marked the fourth consecutive year the Unit had achieved victory in an individual category at the state awards.
Mayor Williams commented, “These results underscore the exceptional dedication of our local SES volunteers who selflessly commit their time to safeguard our community against the unpredictable forces of nature. They embody true community heroes who, through their training and teamwork, offer invaluable assistance during challenging times, mitigating potential damage to property and infrastructure.”
She continued, “Our local SES members consistently earn recognition through annual regional and state accolades, and I am delighted, on behalf of the Redlands Coast community, to extend my heartfelt congratulations for their triumphs at both the Brisbane Region and state awards.”
She continued, “Our local SES members consistently earn recognition through annual regional and state accolades, and I am delighted, on behalf of the Redlands Coast community, to extend my heartfelt congratulations for their triumphs at both the Brisbane Region and state awards.”
What are they recognised for?
Sidrah Harcourt was commended for her outstanding contributions in the realms of operations, group administration, recruitment, and culture. Alexandra Baines was celebrated for her demonstrated achievements in aiding the SES to achieve its objectives, serving as a role model, and displaying exceptional leadership skills.
Additionally, two more Redland City SES Unit members reached the finals at the state awards – David Frazer from the Redland Bay SES Group in the Queensland Member of the Year category and Donald Charles from the Cleveland SES Group in the Spirit of SES Award category.
In addition to these accolades, six Redland City SES Unit volunteers received SES Week certificates at the regional awards ceremony held on September 8:
- Alexandra Baines, Redland Bay, recognised for her exceptional contributions to the SES in leadership, training, and operations.
- Donald Charles, Cleveland, is honoured for his outstanding leadership within the Cleveland SES Group.
- Elizabeth Harris, Redland Bay, is lauded for her remarkable dedication and service to the SES in operations and training.
- David Sondergeld, Redland Bay, is celebrated for his exemplary efforts in resource maintenance and field operations.
- Angela Taylor, Cleveland, is acknowledged for her outstanding professionalism, passion, and commitment to both SES and the community.
- Daniel Tuckwood, Redland Bay, is appreciated for his exceptional service to the SES, characterised by dedicated leadership, training, and member development.
- At the regional awards ceremony, Ian Bacon from the Cleveland SES Group received the SES Meritorious Service Medal 2nd Clasp in recognition of his 20 years of dedicated service, while Leisa Battley, North Stradbroke Island SES Group Leader, received the QFES 10-Year Medal.
Notably, the Redland City, Brisbane City, and Moreton Bay SES Units collectively earned a Highly Commended distinction in the Operational Response category, showcasing their outstanding response in support of the Southwest Region during the Wiembilla forensic search.
The Redland City SES Unit comprises approximately 130 dedicated members serving in various voluntary roles, encompassing storm damage response, flood boat operations, evacuations, first aid, and search and rescue missions. Equally vital are non-field roles in administration, community education, and operational support, all contributing to the Unit’s robust response capabilities during diverse disasters and emergencies.
