Red Cross calls for volunteers

MANAGERS at the local branch of the Red Cross are seeking to increase membership of the Central Victorian volunteer base by five hundred pairs of hands.

Regional operations officer for Red Cross Loddon Mallee Greg Ralton is responsible for the emergency relief agency’s volunteers in three local government areas: the City of Greater Bendigo, and Loddon and Campaspe shires.

He said last year’s floods highlighted the need for more members to assist at future events.

“We were overwhelmed, as were all of the emergency services people, because of the extent of that event and we really needed more people to help,” said Mr Ralton.

“I would be looking at at least 10 extra volunteers to boost the Bendigo team. I would also like to establish a small team in Echuca.

“The team in Echuca over the years has dwindled in numbers and we’re only down to one person, so it would be nice to have people in Echuca put up their hand to join and actually establish a team.

“It was full on, it wasn’t just local Red Cross team members. When we have a large event such as that we also call on volunteers from across Victoria.”

As part of the Red Cross’ response to the floods, 30 volunteers worked eight-hour shifts over three weeks following the disaster.

They were tasked with providing support, food and water, and shelter at the emergency relief centre set up at Bendigo Showgrounds.

“Red Cross volunteers are asked to provide psychological first aid,” Mr Ralton.

“We often sit with the people, or we talk to them over the phone, give them advice about various agencies that may be able to assist materially, and just provide a friendly voice and a person to talk to about the circumstances that they find themselves in.”

Mr Ralton said there are no requirements to sign-up to join the Red Cross.

Prospective members need to be at least 18 years old and go through an interview process, and police and working with children checks.

Successful applicants then undertake training, mainly provided online.

For more information on how to volunteer visit the Red Cross website.