Energex staff have been recognised for their efforts in looking after the electricity needs of households and businesses across South-East Queensland.
Energy Minister Mark Bailey joined staff from across the business at the Energex Excellence Awards in Brisbane, saying the awards recognise the efforts of staff who have worked hard to maintain safe and reliable electricity supplies to households and businesses.
“Just days after I started as Energy Minister, I had the chance to meet crews heading up to Central Queensland to help out after Tropical Cyclone Marcia caused widespread damage to the regional electricity network,” he said.
“A few weeks later, other staff headed south to assist in the clean-up after wild storms damaged the power network in the Hunter region of New South Wales.
“It’s been a busy few months for Energex workers. They sprang into action after the supercell hailstorm in November. Earlier this year, they worked around the clock to restore damage to the network after Brisbane was hit with severe flooding.”
This year’s summer storm season in South-East Queensland was among the most active in decades with more than half a million lightning strikes recorded – well above long-term averages – and 10 major storms triggering rapid responses across the Energex business.
“It often takes major events like hail storms and cyclones for people to realise how hard it is to get by without the basics, and that includes continuous power supply,” Mr Bailey said.
“A lot goes on behind the scenes and I commend all workers for doing their best to maintain safe and reliable power supplies to households and businesses across south east Queensland.”
