- Crisafulli Government boosts SES capability with purpose-built depot amid Queensland's severe weather season.
- $3.75 million Crisafulli Government election commitment delivered in partnership with local government.
- Facility unlocks major volunteer growth and boosts emergency response capacity.
- The Crisafulli Government is delivering a fresh start and a plan for Queensland's future.
The Crisafulli Government is delivering a fresh start after officially opening the new purpose-built State Emergency Service (SES) Deception Bay Depot.
It's a major investment in the City of Moreton Bay's disaster readiness and a significant upgrade to the operational base of the Deception Bay SES Group.
Located at 12 Old Bay Road, the state-of-the-art depot will house additional response assets, strengthen operational capability, and support the growing needs of one of Queensland's most active SES groups.
The project was delivered through a joint 50–50 funding arrangement with local government, underpinned by the Crisafulli Government's $3.75 million election commitment.
The new facility dramatically increases the group's training capacity, from 50 members per night to 120, with recruitment already underway for 35 new volunteers.
It includes fit-for-purpose operational areas, expanded storage, and the capacity to house an enhanced fleet that includes general response vehicles, an all-terrain vehicle, flood boat and command capability.
It also reflects significant statewide growth within the SES, which now stands at 5,383 active members – nearly 300 more than this time last year under Labor.
Minister for Police and Emergency Services Dan Purdie said the new depot marked another step in reversing the neglect left behind by the former Labor government and restoring the SES to the strong, respected organisation Queenslanders deserve.
"For years, Labor treated the SES as an afterthought, starving volunteers of proper facilities and expecting them to carry the load with ageing infrastructure and inadequate support," Minister Purdie said.
"This facility has been purpose-designed with our SES members in mind, giving them the space, equipment and infrastructure they need to continue their lifesaving work.
"The Deception Bay SES Group has been serving this community for 40 years, and today they finally have a modern, fit-for-purpose home that reflects the scale of the work they do.
"Statewide, SES volunteer numbers are climbing because Queenslanders can finally see a government that supports them.
"No government can control the weather, but we can make sure our volunteers have the tools and facilities they need to face it."
Chief Officer of the SES Dr Mark Armstrong emphasised the importance of the new facility in supporting the vital work of SES volunteers.
"Our members selflessly dedicate their personal time to supporting the community during its most challenging moments, often in the face of extreme weather events and emergencies," Dr Armstrong said.
"This new facility not only improves the SES group's ability to respond swiftly and effectively to incidents but also provides a safe and functional space for volunteers to train, plan, and operate.
"It reflects a strong commitment to supporting the dedicated SES members who work tirelessly to protect the community during times of crisis.
"By providing this support, we can help our volunteers maintain their physical and mental well-being, enabling them to continue delivering the exceptional service our communities rely on during times of need."
The Deception Bay SES Group services an area stretching from Deception Bay to Laceys Creek in the west and continues to play a critical role in Queensland's disaster readiness and response.
