Queensland State Emergency Service (SES) prestigious State Awards have been presented at a ceremony today in Brisbane.
Finalists were drawn from the winners of the regional awards which were held across Queensland earlier this year.
The ceremony was a fitting nod to SES Week, which celebrates the hard work and dedication of thousands of SES members and volunteers across Queensland.
SES Week is an annual celebration dedicated to recognising the remarkable contributions of SES members and honouring their passion, dedication and hard work.
Throughout May 2025, each of Queensland's seven SES regions hosted award ceremonies to celebrate their high achievers and commend their exceptional efforts.
Regional award winners were nominated for the corresponding state awards, with select recipients travelling to Brisbane to attend the prestigious state ceremony.
State Award Winners
- Minister's Cup for Member of the Year
Steven Hayes, Redland City SES Unit, Brisbane Region: In recognition of outstanding service to the Redland City SES Unit, enhancing operations, training, preparedness, and collaboration.
- Commissioner's Cup for Unit/Group of the Year
Maryborough SES Group, North Coast Region: For distinguished service to the SES through continued growth and consistent capability in operational readiness.
- Chief Officer's Shield for Operational Response of the Year
Banana SES Unit, Central Region: In recognition of exceptional dedication and teamwork during a challenging and complex vertical rescue operation within Robinson Gorge National Park.
- Director's Cup for Young Member of the Year Bethany Sarles, Holloways Beach SES Group, Far Northern Region: In recognition of steadfast dedication to the Holloways Beach SES Group and its community, exemplifying extraordinary service beyond expectations.
- Joyce Scorey Shield for Trainer of the Year
Nicole Bradley, Townsville SES Group, Northern Region: In recognition of exceptional dedication to the SES, continually going above and beyond to support SES Volunteer Trainers through mentorship, inclusion, collaboration, and communication.
- Suncorp Spirit of SES Winner
Jenny Wilson, Gympie SES Group, North Coast Group: For exemplifying the Spirit of SES through outstanding leadership, operational readiness, community engagement, and recruitment, strengthening resilience and trust during operations.
- Life Member Awards
- Julie Casey, South East Region
- Anthony Daniel, Brisbane Region
- Kristy Keddie, Central Region
Life Member contributions by the nominees combined span over 100 years commitment and dedication to SES.
Acting Deputy Commissioner Chris Stream said he acknowledged the ongoing support and dedication from SES members, particularly during severe weather events this year.
"SES teams are by our sides through police operations, land searches, cyclones, storms, and floods and today outstanding SES members have been recognised for their courage and support," Acting Deputy Commissioner Stream said.
"The SES doesn't just work alongside us - they are an integral part of the team, ensuring the safety and wellbeing of all Queenslanders."
Chief Officer Mark Armstrong celebrated the resilience and spirit of SES staff and volunteers.
"As SES Week draws to a close, I want to thank every SES member across Queensland for their unwavering dedication, resilience, and commitment to keeping our communities safe - rain, hail or shine," Chief Officer Armstrong said.
"These awards are not just a celebration of individual excellence - they're a reflection of the incredible strength and unity of the entire SES family across Queensland."
The Queensland SES State Awards recognise the exceptional service and spirit of our volunteers. Each recipient exemplifies the values of courage, teamwork, and selflessness that define the SES.
SES Week ran from August 18 to 24 and is the annual celebration to acknowledge the outstanding contribution of SES staff and volunteers and recognise their passion, hard work and commitment.
For more information on SES Week visit https://www.ses.qld.gov.au/events
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).
