Minister for Emergency Services Jihad Dib is in Wagga Wagga today to encourage people in regional communities to consider a role in the NSW State Emergency Service (SES), as the agency launches one of its biggest volunteer recruitment campaigns.
The campaign, launched with NSW SES Commissioner Carlene York APM, has a focus on regional areas and particularly those affected by recent extreme weather events.
The SES plays a leading role during floods, storms and other emergencies, and its roughly 10,000 volunteers also assist police and other emergency services with bush searches and road crashes.
The recruitment campaign, which includes advertisements across digital media, social media and regional newspapers, encourages people from all walks of life to consider joining the NSW SES.
The call for volunteers highlights the fact that ‘everyone counts’, recognising the importance of all roles across the agency, from field positions to logistics.
There are 261 SES units across NSW, with 217 located in regional NSW.
Find out more about how to join the SES
Minister for Emergency Services Jihad Dib said:
“We have seen the amazing work our SES volunteers do for their communities, particularly over recent times when NSW has been impacted by serious flooding and storm events.
“Whether it’s rescuing someone trapped in a flooded vehicle, assisting police and other emergency services with bush searches and road crashes, or tarping a roof after an intense storm, our SES volunteers are there and ready to help.
“I would encourage anyone who is considering volunteering to check out what this vital emergency service has to offer.”
NSW SES Commissioner Carlene York APM said:
“Volunteering gives you the opportunity to make lifelong friends, learn new skills and improve your physical and mental health.
“Our volunteers come from all walks of life, bringing with them many different skills, interests and backgrounds.
“We offer incredible training opportunities for all ages and abilities. Our volunteers do everything from using chainsaws to cut fallen trees, to performing logistics or intelligence roles in an incident management team.
“There is a role for everyone at the NSW SES, which is one of the greatest benefits of joining as a volunteer.”
