Disaster response in Deception Bay has received a massive boost with a new multi-million dollar headquarters that will more than double the number of local volunteers able to train and respond during severe weather.
Boosting Local Safety
The Deception Bay State Emergency Service (SES) Group has officially moved into a new facility at 12 Old Bay Road. This project comes at a critical time as Queensland enters its severe weather season.
Delivered through a partnership between the state and local governments, the $3.75 million depot is designed to strengthen disaster readiness for the entire Moreton Bay City area. The new base replaces older infrastructure and provides a modern space for a group that has served the community for four decades.
Room to Grow
A major benefit of this upgrade is the immediate increase in training capacity. Previously, the group could only accommodate 50 members for training sessions, but the new building allows up to 120 volunteers to train each night. This expansion supports a current recruitment drive, with the unit looking to add 35 new volunteers to its ranks. The facility services a wide region stretching from Deception Bay out to Laceys Creek in the west.
Better Tools for the Job
The depot includes expanded storage and specialized operational areas. It is built to house a larger fleet of rescue vehicles, including flood boats, all-terrain vehicles, and general response cars. Beyond just storage, the site features dedicated command capabilities that allow for better coordination during emergencies.
Police and Emergency Services Minister Dan Purdie indicated that the new design focuses on giving volunteers the right tools and space to do their jobs safely. He noted that while the weather cannot be controlled, ensuring volunteers have proper facilities is essential for them to face dangerous conditions.
Supporting Volunteer Well-being
SES Chief Officer Dr Mark Armstrong highlighted that the building does more than just store equipment. He explained that the facility provides a functional and safe environment for members to plan and operate. According to Armstrong, this support is vital for maintaining the physical and mental well-being of volunteers who give up their personal time to protect the community during crises.
The upgrade reflects the growth of the service across the state, which has seen active membership numbers rise to over 5,300 people in the last year.
Published Date 12-December-2025
