The Redlands SES Unit has been awarded its fifth consecutive accolade for excellence.
On Saturday it was named the 2013 Regional Unit of the Year, an award it has won every year since being named State Unit of the Year in 2009.
Redland City Deputy Mayor Alan Beard, who represented the City at the awards, said the unit exemplified the selfless spirit of the SES in times of adversity.
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“This is a record which speaks volumes of the professionalism and excellence of the dedicated members of Redland SES Unit,’’ Cr Beard said.
“Our SES volunteers are often out in the elements, working in tough and dangerous conditions when most of the community are sheltering.
“And they keep going when disasters end, helping communities to recover and rebuild.
“Through its outstanding performance culminating in Saturday’s award, the Redland SES Unit continues to show it is an exceptional team.’’
Mayor Karen Williams, who is also Chair of the Local Disaster Management Group, said the award was fitting recognition.
“I have seen first-hand how the members of this unit have responded selflessly to local emergencies, for which I again extend Redland City’s heartfelt thanks,’’ Cr Williams said.
“They have also shown great willingness to give of their time to support other communities in their times of need.
“The residents of the Redlands can be justifiably proud.’’
Redlands City SES Acting Local Controller Peter Gould, who also is Redland City Council’s service manager of workplace health, safety and wellbeing, said the
Unit grew more capable every year.
“It is a personal honour for me to lead the great group of dedicated volunteers we have in the Redland Unit who are always ready to serve the community in times of need,’’ he said.
“We really appreciate all the support we get from Redland City Council and the broader Redlands community, which allows us to keep functioning each year.’’
Mr Gould paid tribute to former local controller Tom Short, who led the unit for most of the past five years.
“The special thing is they were the five years we won this award,’’ he said.
“Tom continues to be an active operational member and trainer/assessor in the Redland Unit but enjoys more time out in his boat which has been neglected due to a lot of time in orange.’’
During the ceremony, individual awards were presented to:
Outstanding Service Award: Tristan Hardwick and Jane Cook in recognition of their dedication and commitment.
Meritorious Service Medal (with 15-year clasp):
Gesualdo Lo Presti, Cleveland SES Group;
Anne-Marie Bennett, Stradbroke Island SES Group; and
Wayne Whitrod, Redland Bay SES Group.
National Medal:
Anne-Marie Bennett, Stradbroke Island SES Group;
Gesualdo Lo Presti, Cleveland SES Group;
Anthony Daniel (with 35 year Clasp), Redland Bay SES Group.
