General News
8 September, 2026
Highest honour for local SES controller
KYLIE Lang has received the State Emergency Service’s highest honour, being awarded the Minister’s Cup for Member of the Year.
Kylie, who is a Tablelands Regional Councillor and has been the local controller for Atherton SES for a number of years now, received the prestigious award at the organisation’s State Awards in Brisbane recently.
She was recognised for her exceptional leadership, dedication, and contribution to strengthening the local group, and for her service to the community, which was both a heartwarming and humbling moment for herself.
“I don’t volunteer for recognition, so being named Queensland SES Member of the Year is incredibly humbling, especially considering the many amazing volunteers who give so much to their communities every day,” Kylie said.
“I didn’t even know that I had been nominated for the Far Northern Region Member of the Year, so receiving this award still feels surreal.”
During the past year, Kylie deployed to Einasleigh, Georgetown, Normanton, Cardwell, Longreach, and Charleville following flood events, assisting the community in recovery, operating flood boats, and working with residents directly.
In total, she dedicated more than 500 hours to the service in the 12 months to March 2026.
“Deployments are challenging, exhausting, and can be very confronting, but they also remind you why we do what we do,” she said.
“You meet people from all walks of life who are experiencing some of the worst days of their lives. Seeing their faces change from complete despair to a glimmer of hope is one of the most rewarding experiences, especially knowing that you played a part in helping them get there.
“Being able to provide even a small amount of support, which sometimes is as simple as a chat and listening to them, makes the long days, difficult conditions, and time away from home worthwhile.”
Kylie said she was passionate about serving with the SES because of the people and the chance to make a difference.
“I love being part of a team of ordinary individuals who dedicate their time to doing extraordinary things for their communities,” she said.
“The friendships, teamwork, and sense of purpose are what keep me coming back. Volunteering with the SES is my outlet, it’s my happy place, and I do it just as much for myself as for others. I have met some of the most amazing and inspiring people and I appreciate having that opportunity.”
Kylie also congratulated her fellow Atheron member, Elisha Scherwitzel, who was named Far Northern Region Young Member of the Year, as well as the Malanda group, which received the Far Northern Region Group of the Year award.
“I’m very proud to represent the Atherton SES, the Far Northern Region, and Queensland SES,” she added.
