From daring helicopter water drops to high-stakes vertical rescues and crash site extractions - step into the heart-pounding world of emergency response.
Watch live demonstrations, meet real life emergency crews and discover interactive displays that show how our heroes prepare, respond and save lives.
See all this and more at the family friendly Emergency Expo on Sunday, October 19 from 10am to 2pm at Lake Kawana, Bokarina - right in front of Sunshine Coast Stadium.
There'll be plenty to explore, with stalls hosted by emergency services and Sunshine Coast Council, plus food trucks and refreshments to keep everyone energised.
Sunshine Coast Mayor Rosanna Natoli joined Noosa Mayor Frank Wilkie, along with emergency services representatives to officially launch Get Ready Queensland week.
As the Chair of the Sunshine Coast Local Disaster Management Group, Mayor Natoli encouraged the community to also attend the free Emergency Expo and experience firsthand how our emergency crews operate.
"This Expo is a fantastic opportunity to learn how to stay safe, meet the people who protect us, and discover how you can get involved - whether that's through volunteering or even exploring a career in emergency services," Mayor Natoli said.
"If you've been thinking about volunteering to an emergency service, the Expo is a great opportunity to chat with current volunteers - all in one place!"
Mayor Natoli also highlighted the importance of recognising the tireless work of emergency personnel.
"On your toughest day, whether it's a flood, fire or accident, our emergency services are there for you.
"Come along, say thank you and learn how we can all play a part in keeping our community safe."
Council's Disaster Management Coordinator Jason Membrey said November to March is the Sunshine Coast's peak time for severe weather.
"It's important to prepare now before the next severe weather event this summer, so you're ready to handle whatever Mother Nature throws at the Sunshine Coast," Mr Membrey said.
"Council's free Emergency Expo is an opportunity to do just that.
"Understanding which natural disasters or severe weather events are likely to occur in your area will help you prepare for events that are most likely to impact your family and home.
"With Ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred threatening and impacting Sunshine Coast residents earlier this year, we are all too aware of how a disaster can happen anytime and anywhere.
"Young or old, new to the Sunshine Coast, or a long-time resident, homeowner, or renter - planning for extreme weather is important."
The Expo is proudly presented by Sunshine Coast Council in partnership with:
- Noosa Council
- Queensland Fire Department (QFD)
- Queensland Police Service (QPS Sunshine Coast)
- Queensland Ambulance Service (QAS)
- Queensland Health
- State Emergency Service (SES)
- Surf Life Saving Queensland
- Australian Volunteer Coastguard
- Marine Safety Queensland
- Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC)
- Red Cross Australia
- Volunteering Sunshine Coast
- Hot91FM
- Westpac Lifesaver Rescue Helicopter Service
- Department of the Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation
- Australian Defence Force Careers
Find more information at Emergency Expo.
For the latest news and important information and links, head to Sunshine Coast Council's Disaster Hub disasterhub.com.au.
