Toowoomba Regional Council has completed a $100,000 upgrade to improve the Pittsworth State Emergency Service (SES) building as part of the 2024/25 Capital Works Program.
Council Property Services portfolio spokesperson, Councillor Trevor Manteufel said he was glad Council was able to support the 103 Toowoomba Region SES volunteers who provide such a critical service.
“Our Region’s volunteers repeatedly put their lives on the line to help their fellow community members, and one way Council can show gratitude is to ensure they have the facilities they need and very much deserve,” Cr Manteufel said.
The renovations included installing a new fit-for-purpose administration office, updated operational and training facilities as well as a new kitchen and improved amenities. The building’s external façade also received a face lift, incorporating the signature SES colour scheme of grey and orange.
“The total works took approximately three months to complete, making it a substantial renovation,” Cr Manteufel said.
The Pittsworth SES volunteers are planning a formal opening of the refurbished facility in late October.
“The volunteers are eager to invite the community and stakeholders into the new space to showcase the upgrades…. the community are invited to come along, meet the volunteers and potentially become new members,” the SES Area Controller for the South West Region said.
This year alone, the Toowoomba Region SES volunteers have given up more than 3,000 hours of their time to respond to emergency situations and engage with the community by lending a helping hand at numerous events.
“On behalf of Council and the Toowoomba Region residents, I would like to sincerely thank all the SES volunteers across our Region for their dedication and outstanding efforts. Council will continue to support the SES volunteers in any way we can,” Cr Manteufel said.
The Council maintains each of the nine SES buildings across the Region as well as over 90 operational assets including vehicles, storm response trailers, flood boats, ICT equipment and operational equipment such as chainsaws and generators.
