Queensland Police Service (QPS) is proudly recognising the outstanding dedication and service of our State Emergency Service (SES) volunteers, Marine Rescue Queensland (MRQ) crews, and Volunteers in Policing (ViPs) as part of National Volunteer Week celebrations.
Whether responding to natural disasters, assisting in search and rescue operations, or supporting frontline police through community engagement, these volunteers play an essential role in keeping Queenslander's safe.
Acting Police Commissioner Shane Chelepy said the contribution of volunteers across policing and emergency services could not be overstated.
"Our volunteers represent the very best of our community, supporting Queenslanders through personal challenges and community challenges," Acting Commissioner Chelepy said.
"Our ViPs are local community members who generously give their time to support police in many ways - from helping with community safety and crime prevention to being a compassionate presence for victims of crime during some of their toughest moments.
"Our SES and MRQ volunteers provide critical support by boosting our workforce to deal with emergency situations, right across Queensland.
"Our volunteers are a vital part of our policing family, and we are proud to celebrate their dedication during National Volunteer Week."
SES volunteers across Queensland were an integral part of the emergency services response during the recent high-risk weather season.
The volunteer-based organisation deployed hundreds of personnel to assist during the North Queensland floods, Tropical Cyclone Alfred and the flooding out west.
Since this time last year there have been more than 23,000 requests for SES assistance, about 20,000 of those have been since the start of 2025.
A third of those tasks were directly related to flooding, while another third was responding to structural jobs for damaged or leaking properties.
Crews also assisted with multiple floodwater rescues, responded to requests for debris clearing, washouts and more.
Northern District Regional Director Daryl Camp said he was extremely proud of his region's work over the past 12 months, acknowledging the passion and dedication of the people in the local Units.
"Our volunteers go above and beyond every day for their community, and it's extremely important we recognise their work and achievements," Mr Camp said.
With more than 5,000 volunteers across 76 units and seven regions, SES volunteers are always ready to respond to emergencies, no matter the time or place - rain, hail or shine.
But their roles extend beyond severe weather events.
Mr Camp said they are also heavily involved in and often assist QPS with missing persons, forensic searches, and road crash rescues in remote communities.
"We have teams of remarkable volunteers who, day-after-day, bring incredible dedication, knowledge and expertise to this organisation."
Acting Chief Officer Scott Revell said SES volunteers are everyday people who do extraordinary work.
"Being a SES volunteer is all about sacrifice, connection with community and service to others," Acting Chief Officer Revell said.
"I am extremely proud to be part of such a wonderful organisation with so many people willing to give up their time to help others, when they need it most.
"We wear orange today in recognition of their efforts, and to say thank you for your ongoing commitment and dedication."
MRQ Chief Officer Tony Wulff said their volunteers were the lifeblood of their organisation.
"Every day our volunteers give their time, and sometimes risk their lives, to keep Queensland's on-water community safe," Mr Wulff said.
"From coordinating rescues in sometimes difficult conditions, to providing vital safety education to the boating community, our volunteers continue to go above and beyond to serve their communities with professionalism and care."
This week, locals are also being encouraged to wear a splash of orange on their outfits this Wednesday May 21, to acknowledge the SES volunteers who go above and beyond, devoting their time and energy to helping their community.
Wear Orange Wednesday (WOW) Day is a national day to celebrate SES volunteers, recognising their ongoing work and contributions over the past 12 months.
From cyclone response and flood recovery to community patrols and crime prevention programs, QPS ViPs, and SES and MRQ volunteers work tirelessly - often behind the scenes - demonstrating resilience, compassion, and unwavering commitment.
For resources to say thank you to SES volunteers visit www.ses.qld.gov.au. To learn more about MRQ, visit https://www.mrq.qld.gov.au/.
For assistance with a life-threatening situation phone Triple Zero (000) immediately.
For assistance with non-life-threatening situations - such as help with a damaged roof or storm damage - phone SES on 132 500.
Keep up to date with the latest weather advice at Queensland Warnings Summary (bom.gov.au).
