The State Emergency Service (SES) and Marine Rescue Queensland (MRQ) marked the opening of their new, joint headquarters in Nundah recently, signifying an important milestone of bringing together and growing SES’s and MRQ’s ability to deliver stronger and more coordinated state disaster and emergency responses.
This new dedicated space allows SES and MRQ staff and volunteers to better engage with each other, and collaborate with other emergency services agencies, state and local governments and other stakeholders to boost Queensland’s world-class disaster and emergency response and recovery services.
The new Nundah office also enables SES and MRQ to provide timely and effective support to volunteers who play a significant role in helping communities prevent, prepare for, respond to and recover from severe weather events, disasters and emergencies.
The state headquarters site was chosen due to its proximity to the Kedron Emergency Services Complex, public transport and other amenities and services, and the building’s sustainability and efficient climate-management features.
The building was officially opened by the Honourable Mark Ryan MP, Minister for Police and Community Safety; Brian Connors, Acting Deputy Commissioner, Disaster and Emergency Management at the Queensland Police Service (QPS); SES Chief Officer Mark Armstrong; and MRQ Chief Officer Tony Wulff.
SES and MRQ transitioned to become their own discrete entities hosted by the QPS earlier this year as part of the Police and Emergency Services Reform Program, aimed at enhancing Queensland’s emergency services and disaster management arrangements.
Minister for Police and Community Safety, the Honourable Mark Ryan MP said “It is wonderful to see our State Emergency Service and Marine Rescue Queensland come together under one roof to help volunteers and communities across Queensland.
“Working in such close proximity with one another will promote greater sharing of knowledge and skills, resulting in greater efficiencies and a smarter, stronger workforce.”
Acting Deputy Commissioner, Disaster and Emergency Management, Mr Brian Connors said “The Queensland Police Service is immensely proud to support both the SES and MRQ to continue their evolution as new entities under the QPS organisation, and the opening of their State Headquarters is a leap forward for them and for the safety of Queenslanders.
“In times of need, the QPS, SES and MRQ will always come together to ensure our community is safe and supported.”
Mr Mark Armstrong, Chief Officer, SES said “Witnessing the collaboration between our State Emergency Service and Marine Rescue Queensland is inspiring as we join together to enhance community safety on both land and water.
“The partnership between our two vital volunteer services exemplifies the power of collaboration in supporting the safety of Queensland communities.”
Mr Tony Wulff, Chief Officer, MRQ said “As the relatively new kids on the block, Marine Rescue Queensland is grateful to the support received from both QPS and to our new office mates SES as we establish ourselves.
“We look forward to working alongside SES both on the water and in the office.”
