Emergency responders in the Redland City area are now better equipped to handle power outages following the installation of a new backup generator at the State Emergency Service depot in Redland Bay, which serves nearby communities including Birkdale. Announced on 9 April 2026, the project ensures that volunteers can maintain essential disaster relief operations regardless of potential electricity disruptions during severe weather.
The installation is a joint initiative between Redland City Council and the Redland Emergency Services Volunteer Association Inc. The project was prioritised following the impact of ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred in March 2025, when prolonged power failures at the depot hindered the ability of emergency crews to coordinate assistance for residents.
Redland City Mayor and Local Disaster Management Group chair Jos Mitchell said the upgrade provides a critical safety net for the region. By ensuring the facility remains operational during storms, the council aims to improve the consistency of support available to households in Birkdale and the surrounding areas when the power grid fails.
The unit’s enhanced capability coincides with a broader push to grow the local volunteer base as the state-wide organisation celebrates 50 years of service in Queensland. The Redland City volunteer team continues to call for new members from the community to help support the region during future emergency events.
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