Eighteen-year-old NSW SES Shellharbour City Unit volunteer and Corpus Christi Catholic High School student, Ian Haines is currently completing his HSC while continuing to serve his local community through the NSW SES.
Ian first joined the NSW SES through the Service’s 10 week Youth Internship Program in 2024 and quickly discovered a passion for emergency service. He signed on as a full member at just 16 years old and has since become one of the unit’s most dedicated young volunteers.
Despite the demands of senior school studies, Ian has continued to develop his emergency management skills, recently achieving the significant milestone of successfully completing the highly challenging Flood Rescue Operator course.
As a qualified Flood Rescue Operator, Ian is trained to assist communities during flood emergencies, including helping evacuate isolated residents, supporting rescues of people and animals from floodwaters, operating specialist rescue equipment and assisting motorists trapped in flooded vehicles.
Alongside his NSW SES volunteering, Ian also serves as a Cadet Under Officer with the Australian Air Force Cadets, demonstrating a strong commitment to service and leadership.
Ian said volunteering with the NSW SES has taught him valuable lessons that have helped him both in and out of the classroom.
“Balancing school, volunteering and other commitments can be challenging at times, but it’s also incredibly rewarding,” he said.
“The skills I’ve learned through the NSW SES, including teamwork, communication and staying calm under pressure, have helped me in many aspects of my life. Being able to help people in their time of need makes it all worthwhile.”
Ian hopes to continue serving the community long into the future, with ambitions to join the Australian Defence Force after completing his HSC studies.
NSW SES Shellharbour Unity Commander, Ray Merz said Ian’s commitment demonstrated the important contribution young volunteers make across the Service.
“Ian is an outstanding example of the next generation of emergency service volunteers,” Mr Merz said.
“While preparing for one of the most important milestones in his education, he continues to dedicate his time to serving and protecting his community. His achievements show what can be accomplished through commitment, perseverance and a desire to help others.”
As Ian prepares for his exams, the NSW SES wishes him and all HSC students across New South Wales the very best of luck.
