Disaster Readiness Boosted For SES In Hinchinbrook

Wayde Chiesa MP with Ingham SES new recruits 2026. Photo supplied  

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The 2026-27 Queensland SES Support Grant Program is set to strengthen preparedness across the Hinchinbrook, through projects that aim to make sure local SES volunteers are ready to leap into action the moment disaster strikes and to support our community through recovery afterwards, whether it’s storms, floods, cyclones, or search and rescue operations.  

Member for Hinchinbrook Wayde Chiesa said this investment is a major boost for our local SES volunteers and for everyone who calls our community home.  

“Our SES volunteers are always there when our community needs them most, and this investment is about making sure they have the facilities and equipment they need to do their job safely and effectively,” Mr Chiesa said.  

“The command building, vehicle replacement and facility upgrades will strengthen the capability of the Halifax, Ingham and Rollingstone SES Units and help volunteers continue their incredible work protecting local families during emergencies.  

As part of the funding, the Halifax SES Unit will receive $142,874 for a new command building, while the Ingham SES Unit will receive $71,871 to replace operational vehicles.  

Mayor of Hinchinbrook Council and chair of the Hinchinbrook Local Disaster Management Group, Ramon Jayo, said the funding would strengthen the capability of SES volunteers in Hinchinbrook and support a more effective response during emergencies.  

“This funding will help ensure our SES volunteers have access to the facilities and equipment they need to respond safely and effectively when our community needs them most,” Mayor Jayo said.  

“The proposed upgrades to the Halifax command building and the replacement vehicle for the Ingham unit are practical investments that will support emergency response operations and strengthen local disaster preparedness across the Hinchinbrook Shire.”  

The Rollingstone SES Unit will also benefit from $27,782 in facility upgrades, with the funding through Townsville City Council.  

The investment forms part of the State Government's statewide commitment to strengthen SES capability, with 35 projects funded across Queensland and an additional 12 priority SES vehicles fast-tracked for replacement.  

Queensland SES Acting Chief Officer Danny Baade said the funding would improve the safety and operational capability of SES volunteers across Queensland.  

“It’s vital that our members are supported in disaster preparedness and response," Mr Baade said.    

“Whether it’s floods, cyclones, or search and rescues, this funding will allow our units to be equipped to help Queenslanders when they need it most.”  

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Project details:  

Recipient: Hinchinbrook Shire Council  

SES Unit: Halifax  

Project: Command building  

Funding: $142,874  

Recipient: Hinchinbrook Shire Council  

SES Unit: Ingham  

Project: Vehicle replacement  

Funding: $71,871  

Recipient: Townsville City Council  

SES Unit: Rollingstone  

Project: Facility upgrades  

Funding: $27,782

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