By Tania Phillips
It’s storm season – time to make preparations to protect your home and maybe think about volunteering with the State Emergency Service.
Tania Phillips asks North Coast SES Regional Manager Angela Everist what it takes to wear the orange uniform.
How important are volunteers to the SES?
Volunteers are incredibly important to the SES. With more than 5000 active members, our volunteers are committed to serving their local communities and must be prepared in the event of an emergency. We are always looking to engage more with our communities and would love to see more people joining our volunteer ranks.
How can you become involved in the SES?
The SES is always looking for enthusiastic people willing and able to help protect our people, property and environment. Joining is simple and you can contact your nearest SES Area Office to find out more.
Applicants must be willing to give back to their community and able to activate during disasters and emergencies. Applicants over the age of 18 must undergo a Criminal History Check and hold a current blue card.
What sort of roles are available?
Roles in the SES vary from responding to emergencies to teaching the community how to be prepared for disasters.
Each group is unique, and roles can vary depending on their operational capacity and local needs. Have a chat with your local SES Group to see what you can do to support your community.
If you want to help, we’ll find a way to use your talents and expertise!
What sort of training do you need?
New volunteers are invited to attend induction training by their local SES group. From there, training is ongoing and members can expect to develop skills in areas such as first aid, road crash rescue, flood boat rescue, storm damage response and land search techniques.
What sort of commitment do you need to make?
There is an expectation for members to regularly attend training and support during activations where possible. This can range anywhere from five-15 hours per week.
What are the benefits of volunteering?
Volunteering is an excellent way to give back to your community. You can also develop strong connections by working with a like-minded group of enthusiastic people.
There are also many personal benefits to volunteering as well. Volunteering instils us with a sense of purpose, provides social networks and supports, gives opportunities to grow and develop, and helps us achieve in areas of strength – all important contributing factors to our physical and mental wellbeing.
