A salute to SES Local Controller for 17 years service

Date: Wednesday, 23rd September 2009

Townsville Mayor and Local Disaster Management Group chair, Cr Les Tyrell, has paid tribute to State Emergency Service Local Controller, Fred Parker, who is stepping down from the position after 17 years.

Cr Tyrell described Mr Parker as having done a sterling job in the voluntary role.

“Fred has been a volunteer with the local SES for 30 years – this really is an exceptional effort that underlines a strong commitment to building a resilient community,” Cr Tyrell said.

“For more than half of that period, he’s been the Local Controller of a sizeable unit. This is an important and significant position that’s required lots of time and energy.

“On behalf of the community that Fred has sought to help and protect, I wish to extend a big thank you for all his efforts.

“I know all the members of the Local Disaster Management Group have valued his contribution and advice over a long time, as has the state ministerial Emergency Management Advisory Group which Fred has served on for the past three years.”

As the Local Controller, Mr Parker managed the response of the Townsville SES to disaster and emergency operations and maintained the operational effectiveness of the unit.

His achievements included significant improvements to the facilities and equipment available to SES volunteers, along with enhanced training programs, conditions and procedures which have been adopted state-wide.

Cr Tyrell said Mr Parker’s employer, Ergon Energy, played a critical part in allowing him to carry out the role.

“We’ve always known that we can rely on Fred, not only because of his own personal commitment, but because he had the full support of Ergon,” Cr Tyrell said.

“The reality is that SES volunteers find it very difficult to take part without the co-operation of their employers.

“Every week, Fred has given about 15 hours of his time to the SES, and we know this is considerably higher during natural disasters and the wet season.”

Fred Parker will step down from the position as Local Controller on September 25 after accepting a promotion at Ergon which will increase his travel commitments.

Emergency Management Queensland and council will seek to have the position filled next month.