The State Emergency Service (SES) has marked 50 years of service to Queensland with a vibrant “Orange Army” parade through Brisbane’s CBD, celebrating the thousands of volunteers who have supported communities through floods, storms and emergencies since 1976.
Current and former SES members, staff and families marched from Queens Gardens to King George Square on Saturday, where the anniversary celebrations continued with a community showcase featuring demonstrations and displays of emergency response capabilities.
The milestone event also served as a farewell for outgoing SES Chief Officer Mark Armstrong, who is stepping down after two years in the role.
Mr Armstrong said the anniversary was an opportunity to recognise the dedication of volunteers who form the backbone of disaster response across the state.
“For 50 years, SES volunteers have gone above and beyond to protect Queenslanders,” he said. “They are the backbone of our disaster response and recovery efforts.”
With around 5,500 volunteers currently serving statewide, the SES has played a key role in responding to cyclones, floods and search-and-rescue operations over the decades.
Among those honoured was SES Deputy Group Leader Terrence Chapman, a 50-year member who recalled joining the organisation in 1974 as member number 99.
“My first activation was storm damage, and I’ll never forget how rewarding it felt to help the community,” Mr Chapman said.
Queensland Police Service Deputy Commissioner Chris Stream also paid tribute, praising volunteers as “everyday people doing extraordinary things” and acknowledging their long-standing commitment to public safety across Queensland.
Image source: mypolice.qld.gov.au