From floods and storms to a range of other emergencies, dedicated Temora Unit volunteers have been there to support their small town and surrounding communities through some of the toughest moments.
In celebration of their 50-year milestone, NSW SES Temora Unit opened its doors for a community open day on Saturday 15 August, including live demonstrations, interactive activities and a barbeque.
NSW SES Deputy Unit Commander James Gault reflected on how the Unit has grown throughout the past 50 years.
“Over the years, I have watched the SES evolve, with specific training strategies, improved equipment and modern communications,” Mr Gault said.
“These changes have helped us better protect the communities we serve and ensure that volunteers can do their jobs more effectively.”
The NSW SES Temora Unit was established in 1976, and in the past four years has responded to more than 150 calls for assistance.
Today, the Unit is made up of a dedicated group of volunteers who operate out of a headquarters facility on Vesper Street, which is equipped with specialised vehicles and equipment. Adding to their fleet this week is a new inflatable rescue boat to use in flood rescue response.
“While many things have changed, the most important thing has remained exactly the same – the heart of the SES has always been its people,” Mr Gault said.
“I’ve seen volunteers leave their families in the middle of the night to help a neighbour they’ve never met. I’ve seen members stand shoulder to shoulder during floods, storms, searches and emergencies, working tirelessly because they knew someone needed help.”
Not only are Temora Unit members there to support their tight-knit community, they are often called on to support out of area requests for assistance. Over the years, members have deployed to support during the Thredbo landslide, Sydney bushfires and Albury storms.
One experience that struck a chord with Mr Gault was being helicoptered into Euabalong in 2022 when it was isolated by floodwaters.
“What I remember most is the determination of the people around me. There was no talk about whose job it was or who should be doing what. We all simply got on with the task because the community needed our help,’ he said.
NSW SES Southern Zone Commander Ben Pickup commended the Temora Unit for 50 years of dedicated service.
“For five decades, the Temora Unit has provided invaluable support to the local community, responding when people needed help most and assisting communities well beyond the region during major emergencies,” Chief Superintendent Pickup said.
