Queensland’s frontline disaster network reached an important milestone this week, celebrating the first anniversary of the State Emergency Service (SES) and Marine Rescue Queensland (MRQ) operating under the banner of the Queensland Police Service (QPS).
The SES formally transferred to QPS on the 3rd of June, with MRQ launched one month later. The realignment created the state’s first integrated marine rescue model and strengthened existing partnerships across emergency agencies.
Acting Police Commissioner Shane Chelepy APM said the results speak for themselves.
“I’ve witnessed first hand the strength of collaboration between our agencies, and how it has transformed our approach to disaster management,” Acting Commissioner Chelepy said.
“Over the past year, the SES, MRQ and QPS have worked side by side to support communities through major weather events, including widespread flooding across the north and west, and the impact of Tropical Cyclone Alfred.
“I’m proud of the difference our crews have made in the lives of Queenslanders who were deeply affected by these disasters.
“As we look ahead, I’m committed to continuing this close partnership with our emergency services as we strengthen our collective response in times of crisis.”
Throughout the year, SES volunteers answered thousands of calls for help, from evacuations and roof repairs to clearing fallen trees.
“Our volunteers made a significant difference in many communities, when we responded to the multiple disasters this year,” SES Chief Officer Dr Mark Armstrong CSC said.
“One year on from transition, the SES stands ready to support Queenslanders in times of need.”
For MRQ, the anniversary coincides with the first birthdays of its inaugural units in Mackay and Gladstone.
“From our first two units in Central Queensland, we’ve grown to 14 units … with more units scheduled to transition across before the end of 2025,” MRQ Chief Officer Tony Wulff said.
“We anticipate MRQ will ultimately grow to around 2,700 Queensland volunteers operating across 47 units, undertaking 4,000 activations across the state every year.”
Queenslanders are reminded to dial Triple Zero (000) for life‑threatening emergencies, call SES on 132 500 for storm or flood assistance, and stay informed via the Bureau of Meteorology’s warning summaries.
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