A volunteer with the Moreton Bay SES unit in Petrie has been recognised in the City of Moreton Bay 2026 Australia Day Awards for long-term service supporting emergency response and volunteer training.
Service Through The Moreton Bay SES Petrie Unit
Ronald Aquilina received a Mayor’s Community Spirit Award for his contribution to the State Emergency Service, with official material identifying him as part of the Moreton Bay SES Unit, Petrie.
His service spans more than a decade and includes operational roles before, during and after disaster events. The award material highlights his work coordinating and training SES members on flood boats, as well as his role in supporting volunteer readiness.
Training And Mentorship Focus
According to the award citations provided, Mr Aquilina developed a structured mentorship program to support new SES volunteers. The initiative focused on building practical skills and supporting volunteers as they progressed through operational roles.
The material states that these initiatives improved crew capability and safety through coordinated training and mentoring, contributing to more effective disaster response.
Experience Across Emergency Response
Mr Aquilina’s experience with Volunteer Marine Rescue is also referenced in the award material, informing his roles within the SES. His background across both organisations supported training and operational coordination.
Recognition for his service includes internal SES acknowledgements, reflecting his involvement in training, leadership and volunteer development.
Other Honourees Recognised
The same City of Moreton Bay 2026 Australia Day Awards also recognised Chris Paterson as Citizen of the Year for work through Bamboo Projects, which employs people living with disability or mental health challenges to remove marine debris from local waterways.
Mayor’s Community Spirit Awards were also presented to Jan Schutt and Alison Schutt for their work with Stationery Aid, an initiative redistributing unused school supplies to students facing resource barriers across the City of Moreton Bay.
Published 28-Jan-2026
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