The dedication of the Burdekin’s frontline emergency volunteers during times of disaster was brought to the fore recently with Member for Burdekin Dale Last taking the time to recognise the efforts of Burdekin SES members.

Nine members of the Burdekin SES were recently presented with Emergency Response Medals acknowledging the support they provide to the Burdekin community during times of emergency.

Mr Last said with close to 50 members, the Burdekin SES had continued to provide an invaluable service across the wet season. 

“While the majority of us are hunkered down in our homes during times of severe weather, these men and women in our local orange army are out in force,” Mr Last said.

“Whether it's in flood boat operations, tarping roofs, providing sandbags or assisting in the clean-up efforts following an event, our SES volunteers deserve our utmost gratitude for the work they do to keep our community safe.”

“The Emergency Response medals recognises the dedication these men and women bring to large-scale, emergency response and recovery efforts each time we are faced with disaster.”

The presentation of Emergency Response Medals to the Burdekin SES members coincided with the announcement local SES controller Warren Francis and his partner Jenny were farewelling the Burdekin.

Mr Last said the key roles both Jenny and Warren had played during times of natural disasters and in emergency situations were commendable.

“It was a privilege to recognise the work Warren and Jenny have done in our community and thank them both on behalf of the community, for their dedication and service in multiple volunteer organisations and through the local council,” Mr Last said.

“It is people like Warren and Jenny who encompass community spirit and make our community a better place to live in. Their dedication to not only emergency response and disaster recovery but boating safety has certainly not gone unnoticed during their time in the Burdekin.”

“On behalf of the Burdekin community I’d like to offer our heartfelt thanks to Warren and Jenny and wish them all the very best in their future endeavours.”