State Emergency Service (SES) volunteers regularly play a key role in search and rescue missions, but this week a Northern Region SES unit is on a hunt of a different kind.
Local Controller Robert Griffiths said the Townsville City SES Unit would throw open its doors on Wednesday 11 March with the aim of adding new volunteers to its ranks.
“Last year, the Townsville City SES Unit was the busiest in the state, receiving more than 4,400 requests for assistance,” Mr Griffiths said.
“Whilst we already have a team of highly dedicated volunteers, we are always on the search for new recruits to bolster our response capability.
“Being a part of the SES is an incredibly rewarding way to give back to your local community whilst also challenging yourself and making lifelong friends.
“Volunteers will have the opportunity to pick up a range of practical life skills, including first aid, flood boat rescue, land search and storm damage response.
“There are also a number of non-operational roles within the organisation, such as administration and support roles.
“I encourage anyone with an interest in becoming a part of the SES to attend the information session.”
SES Northern Regional Manager Daryl Camp said the SES played a critical role in responding to disasters and emergencies, such as the 2019 North and Far North Queensland monsoon.
“By joining the SES, volunteers may respond to a range of activations such as severe weather events, searches for missing persons and cliff rescues,” Mr Camp said.
“For instance, the SES played a major role during last year’s monsoon event by evacuating residents from flooded homes, sandbagging properties, tarping roofs, and assisting other agencies.
“If you are a community-minded person who wants to help others whilst also challenging yourself, we want you in the SES.”
There are no joining fees to volunteer for the SES and volunteers are provided with protective clothing, training and relevant equipment based on their role within an SES Group.
For more information and to become a member of your local SES group contact Northern Region SES on 4796 9050 or visit www.emergency.qld.gov.au/ses for more information.
Background information
Who: Townsville City SES Unit
What: Information night
When: 7pm, Wednesday 11 March 2020
Where: Room 6, Reid Park, Boundary Street, Railway Estate
