Community & Business
16 October, 2026
Qld win national SES challenge
QUEENSLAND SES has been named Overall Champions at the National Disaster Rescue Challenge, which was held on the Tablelands recently.
The biannual NDRC is one of Australia’s premier SES capability development events, bringing state and territory emergency service teams together to test their skills, share knowledge and strengthen professional relationships in the spirit of friendly competition.
This year, it was hosted by the SES Far Northern Region at Tinaroo and Lake Barrine, with a theme of ‘Wild Weather’ reflecting the severe natural hazards commonly experienced in FNQ, such as tropical cyclones, flash flooding and bushfires.
Representing Queensland after winning the State challenge in Cairns last year was the Gold Coast City unit, who went on to take out the top honours at this year’s National event, earning a win for themselves and their state.
Competing against teams from across Australia, the unit completed eight realistic disaster scenarios, which tested the skills SES volunteers regularly use during emergencies and natural disasters.
SES Far Northern Regional Director Wayne Coutts said the Challenge was more than a competition as it served as a practical learning event for volunteers to hone their disaster and rescue capabilities.
“Teams are challenged to respond to complex incidents that replicate the types of emergencies encountered across Australia,” he said.
Teams rotated through realistic rescue scenarios designed to assess a broad range of competencies, including planning, leadership, communication, risk management, technical rescue skills and teamwork.
“Participants not only compete but also engage in learning activities, networking opportunities and professional discussions that contribute to the development of rescue capability nationally.
“The event creates an environment where innovative techniques, lessons learned and operational experiences can be shared between jurisdictions.”
2026 NATIONAL DISASTER RESCUE CHALLENGE AWARDS:
Overall Champions – Queensland SES
Overall Runners-Up – New South Wales SES
Overall Third Place – Victoria SES
Hori Howard Spirit of the Challenge – Tasmania SES
Best First Aid Team – Queensland SES
Team Leader Award – Levi Healey, Queensland SES
Mike Escape Award (Fastest Rescue) – Tasmania SES
