Bundaberg Regional Council is set to commence significant upgrades at the Bundaberg State Emergency Service (SES) depot aimed at improving access, internal roads, drainage and parking facilities.
Situated on Kendalls Road in Avoca, the depot is leased by the SES through Council and is a vital hub for the emergency services organisation.
Features of the upgrade include:
- Improvements to site drainage.
- Resurfacing and reconfiguration to support traffic flow within the depot.
- Expanded parking areas designed to better accommodate volunteers and emergency vehicles.
Mayor Helen Blackburn said the planned upgrades would help to ensure the SES team could continue their critical work.
“We appreciate the support of the State Emergency Service Support Grant which has made this important project possible,” she said.
“We are confident these improvements will provide lasting benefits for the SES members and the broader Bundaberg community.”
Bundaberg Regional SES Unit Local Controller Kieran Galey said the planned improvements would make a significant difference to the team’s operational efficiency.
“During periods of high activity, particularly in storm and flood events, we see a large movement of vehicles, boats and trailers through the facility,” he said.
“Enhancing drainage and improving access will reduce congestion, minimise vehicle movement hazards and ensure our volunteers can deploy more safely and efficiently when responding to emergencies.”
Kieran said the Bundaberg SES Facility was the operational hub for its volunteers across the local government area.
“It houses our vehicles, rescue equipment, flood boats and communication systems, serving as the coordination point for both training and emergency response operations,” he said
“A well-functioning facility ensures our volunteers can prepare, mobilise and return safely.
“ It’s essentially the backbone of our local SES capability.”
Upgrades have come at the perfect time, according to Kieran, who said it was going to be a busy few months ahead.
“As we move into the storm and cyclone season our volunteers are focused on readiness and community preparedness,” he said.
“We’re conducting storm season briefings, equipment inspections and refresher training in areas such as temporary roof repair, flood boat operations and chainsaw safety.
“Our aim is to ensure that when severe weather hits, our teams are fully equipped and ready to support the community.
“On behalf of the Bundaberg SES, I’d like to thank Bundaberg Regional Council for their continued partnership and support because improvements like these directly enhance our ability to serve the community when it matters most.”
The project is expected to be completed by December 2025.
