Join us in recognising and celebrating the incredible work of the Queensland State Emergency Service (SES). This page showcases some of the key events this year.
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SES Week
During SES Week, 24 to 30 August 2026, we honour the hard work and outstanding efforts of the SES staff and volunteers across Queensland. SES Week marks an important event in the calendars of our staff and volunteers. It provides the opportunity to honour the hard work and dedication that the SES provides to the communities of Queensland.
The week culminated in the State Award Ceremony on Saturday 29 August where winners, selected from the winners of the regional awards in May, were awarded the top honours of the SES. We take this opportunity to thank our volunteers for helping our communities get back on its feet following the many challenges thrown at us.
2026 award recipients
Minister’s Cup for SES Member of the Year
Kylie Lang, Atherton SES Group, Far Northern Region
Commissioner’s Cup for SES Group/Unit of the Year
Bundaberg Regional SES Unit, North Coast Region
Joyce Scorey Shield for SES Trainer of the Year
Andrew Collins, Caloundra SES Group, North Coast Region
Chief Officer’s Shield for SES Operational Response of the Year
Clifton SES Group, South Western Region
Director’s Cup for SES Young Member of the Year
Gracie Springer, Tewantin SES Group, North Coast Region
Suncorp Spirit of SES award
Gregory Yuskan, Whitsunday SES Group, Central Region
Highly Commended:
Jeni Scott, Howard SES Group, North Coast Region AND Vince McGuire, Rosewood SES Group, South Eastern Region
Life Members
Nicholas Gower, Brisbane Region
Warren Spreadborough, Central Region
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Run Army
Run Army is more than just a running or walking event; it is a celebration of resilience, health and community spirit. It honours our front-line emergency responder community, including the Queensland State Emergency Service, Australian Army, Queensland Police Service, Queensland Fire Department, Queensland Ambulance Service, and Surf Life Saving Queensland.
The Queensland SES is proud to partner with Run Army. In 2027, our Orange Army will be out in full force, championing active lifestyles, community wellbeing, and fundraising for important causes. Run Army will be held in Brisbane on 11 April, Townsville on 18 April, and virtually throughout March and April.
2026’s theme, ‘Working Dogs’ highlighted the incredible role working dogs play in supporting emergency responders and communities.
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WOW! - Wear Orange Wednesday
Wear Orange Wednesday (WOW Day), taking place on Wednesday, 19 May 2027,is a national day dedicated to celebrating and showing appreciation for the incredible SES volunteers in Queensland and across Australia. These selfless individuals support our communities during storms, floods, and other emergencies, often in the most challenging circumstances.
Each year, WOW Day coincides with National Volunteer Week (17–23 May), a time to recognise the invaluable contributions of volunteers from all walks of life. The theme for last year’s National Volunteer Week was "Your Year to Volunteer", encouraging everyone to reflect on the importance of volunteering and consider how they might contribute to their communities. As we celebrate WOW Day, let’s take a moment to thank the volunteers in our lives and think about how we, too, can make a difference.
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Regional awards
Each May we honour the hard work and outstanding efforts of the SES staff and volunteers in each of our seven SES regions across Queensland. Regional events are held around the state to recognise our volunteers and units who have gone above and beyond in supporting their communities.
For more information on what is happening the regions in 2027, contact the Regional Headquarters.
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Past events
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50th Anniversary and Parade
Thanks to all those that joined us throughout 2025 and 2026 in celebrating 50-years of dedicated service by the Queensland State Emergency Service (SES).
On 6 June 2026, the celebrations culminated in a vibrant parade through Brisbane’s CBD, followed by a community showcase in King George Square.
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