SES march celebration uncovers Logan link
A special march on the weekend marked a moment to say ‘thank you’ to State Emergency Service (SES) volunteers for the past 50 years, who have stepped up for Queenslanders through cyclones, storms, floods and all the most challenging times.
The incredible Orange Army legacy was honoured on Saturday 6 June – Queensland Day – with a vibrant parade through Brisbane’s CBD, celebrating the dedication and service of SES members for the past half a century.
One of those proudly marching was 50-year member Terry Chapman ESM, the SES Deputy Group Leader for the South Eastern Region, who received special recognition for being there since the beginning.
As it turns out, Mr Chapman was not only sharing the special march day with his colleagues he now calls friends – but also with his wife, SES Life Member Elizabeth Chapman, who he met at Logan more than 3 decades ago.
‘I remember being recruited by the Queensland Civil Defence Organisation in 1974 and being told about this new organisation,’ Mr Chapman says.
‘I was given member number 99, which I still proudly hold today.
ABOVE: Celebrating the 50th anniversary of the Queensland SES, and marking 50 years of personal service, is Life Member Terry Chapman ESM, the SES Deputy Group Leader for the South Eastern Region.
‘My first activation was storm damage in December 1974. I sat in the office taking calls, and I’ll never forget how rewarding it felt to be part of a team helping the community during such a challenging time,’ he says.
‘It’s been a privilege to serve alongside so many dedicated people who give their time and energy to protect our communities.
‘This milestone is not just about looking back at what we’ve achieved, but also about looking forward to the future of the SES.
‘I even met my wife while delivering training to recruits at Logan SES in 1991. The SES has truly shaped my life in so many ways.’
Mr Chapman encourages anyone who wants to make a difference to consider joining the organisation. Around 5,500 volunteers currently serve across Queensland.
On Saturday, current and former SES volunteers, staff members and their loved ones marched from Queens Gardens Park to King George Square, where they then rounded out the celebrations with a community showcase, featuring a range of activities and displays.
ABOVE: Members of the Queensland SES South Eastern Region marched together on 6 June, including Life Member Terry Chapman, left, and wife Elizabeth Chapman, marching behind.
The occasion also marked the final event for outgoing Chief Officer Mark Armstrong, who is leaving the role after 2 years at the helm of the SES.
‘This 50th anniversary is a chance for all Queenslanders to come together and celebrate the incredible work of these everyday heroes who give so much to our communities,’ former Chief Officer Armstrong says.
‘The SES is the backbone of our state’s disaster response and recovery efforts. From cyclones and floods and search-and-rescue operations, SES volunteers have gone above and beyond over the years to protect the lives of fellow Queenslanders and I am immensely proud to have been a part of that.
“It is fitting to mark this 50th anniversary with such a vibrant and well-attended event, honouring the selfless contributions of SES members to communities across the state.’
Queensland Police Service (QPS) Deputy Commissioner Chris Stream extended his thanks to the SES, and the thousands of volunteers who have dedicated their time to supporting Queensland communities.
‘You are everyday people, doing extraordinary things – and for that, we thank you,’ Deputy Commissioner Stream told the crowd of volunteers.
‘Your professionalism, dedication, and resilience are second to none, and we are proud to stand alongside the SES as you mark this significant milestone.’
ABOVE: SES volunteers march through Brisbane’s CBD.
PHOTO AT TOP: Queensland SES Life Members and life partners Terry Chapman and Elizabeth Chapman.
Photos: Courtesy of Queensland Police Service and Queensland State Emergency Service.