Get Ready and celebrate SES Week

Published on 12 October 2021

Local Controller Eddie Cowie with Mayor Tony Williams and Cr Drew Wickerson.jpg

It’s Get Ready Week and SES Week – which means it’s time to update your household emergency plan and make sure you’re ready for disaster season!

Chair of the Local Disaster Management Group (LDMG) Mayor Tony Williams said both of these weeks are designed to highlight the importance of being prepared.

“Get Ready Week is all about looking at the challenges the season ahead might bring and ensuring that we’re ready to weather any storm,” Mayor Williams said.

“And SES Week gives us an opportunity to thank the incredible volunteers in our community who are there for us when disaster does strike.

“These weeks are a great reminder for every household to make sure they’re prepared for the potential of storms, floods, and bushfires over the next few months.

“At Council we’ve been working closely with the SES and other agencies across the region to make sure that we understand the risks facing our region and are well placed to meet them together.”

Local SES Controller Eddie Cowie said that volunteers have been really honing their skills over the last few months to ensure they’re ready.

“I really want to commend all of our volunteers for the hard work they’ve been doing,” Mr Cowie said.

“It’s an incredible feeling to know that we can be there for our community when they need us.

“If you’ve ever thought of volunteering for the SES I’d really encourage you to get in touch.

“There’s a place for everyone – even if you can’t see yourself getting on a roof or chain sawing a fallen tree. Although, once you join you might find yourself doing a few things you never thought you could!”

Council’s Disaster Management unit and local SES will be set up at the Rockhampton Bunnings along with Queensland Fire and Emergency Services (QFES) this Saturday with disaster preparedness resources.

Deputy Chair of the LDMG Councillor Drew Wickerson encouraged everyone to stop by the information stall.

“This is a great chance to have a chat to people who really understand our region and the hazards we face,” Cr Wickerson said.

“Everyone there will have some great information based on their expertise and experience, so I’d really recommend picking their brains about how you can best prepare.

“They’ll also have some really helpful resources, so it’s definitely worth a chat!”

Community members interested in volunteering for the SES can get in touch with Eddie Cowie on 0447 932 496 to find out more.

Heritage buildings in Quay Street will also be lit up orange this week to mark SES Week.