Council’s SES investment boosts community safety
Sunshine Coast Mayor Rosanna Natoli presented a new, purpose-built, storm damage response vehicle to the Coolum State Emergency Service (SES) Group during National SES Week.
The Sunshine Coast's emergency response capability has received a boost, with Sunshine Coast Council presenting a new purpose-built storm damage response vehicle to the Coolum State Emergency Service (SES) Group during National SES Week.
Mayor Rosanna Natoli and Councillor Maria Suarez joined SES volunteers and community representatives to unveil the new Coolum 501 vehicle and acknowledge the vital role SES volunteers play in keeping communities safe.
Across Queensland, around 5,000 SES volunteers serve in more than 300 local groups. Locally we have 307 SES volunteers across our region dedicating countless hours to training, preparation and emergency response.
Mayor Natoli said Council was proud to support SES volunteers through ongoing funding and operational assistance.
"Our SES volunteers are there for the community on the most challenging of days, in extreme conditions, and it's important they have all the equipment and resources they need to respond safely and effectively," Mayor Natoli said.
“Council currently supports eight SES groups across the region, along with a fleet of 19 SES vehicles and a Polaris response vehicle.
“The Coolum 501 was jointly funded through a State SES Support Grant and a Sunshine Coast Council contribution.
"This investment will support our volunteers and strengthen emergency response across the region for many years to come," Mayor Natoli said.
"The new vehicle will be a valuable asset not only for the Coolum SES Group, but for the entire Sunshine Coast community."
First of its kind vehicle
The new Coolum 501 is unlike any other Sunshine Coast SES vehicle and has been specifically designed for storm damage and severe weather operations.
Built on an IVECO Daily 70S Dual Cab 4x4 platform, it can transport up to six volunteers and carry essential equipment including ladders, lighting, sandbags and chainsaws.
For more information about volunteering with the SES, visit ses.qld.gov.au.
For emergency updates, preparedness checklists and disaster resources, visit Council's Disaster Hub at disaster.sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au.