Long service, excellence awarded

SES volunteer Peter Duncan was awarded both the Regional and State Awards for Excellence in the area of innovation at the Heathcote SES Annual Awards afternoon last weekend.

The award recognises members who are seen as champions of the processes for innovation and change within VICSES that improve service delivery outcomes, meeting organisational and community needs.

Mr Duncan was nominated by the Frankston Unit in recognition of his outstanding contribution, exceptional leadership and innovation through his implementation of the Trello project management tool.

Now used across many units in Victoria, the Frankston Unit was one of the first to utilise the program.

Deputy Controller Clynton Robinson (centre) who has actively served for more years than 80 per cent of current members was recognised for 15 years of service.

A statement from the Frankston Unit said the “initiative has ensured seamless operational response and recovery, significantly enhancing the unit’s efficiency and effectiveness.”

“Peter’s innovative use of Trello has been instrumental in managing multiple significant events, including the coordination of over 2200 requests for assistance in the storms of October 2021, one of Frankston’s biggest ever weather events,” the statement said.

“Peter’s dedication and forward-thinking approach has not only streamlined operations but set a new standard for emergency response management within VICSES.

“His commitment to excellence and his ability to leverage technology for the betterment of the community exemplify his talent and dedication to the service”.

Mr Duncan said that although he was the recipient of the award, it belonged to a number of people who helped to set up the program.

“I have a background in computer programming and saw a need to improve the system we were using,” he said.

“Work on it started back in 2011 and a lot of people helped. There are 55 units using it now and we are getting good feedback.

“It helps to get the right people to jobs, and everyone can see clearly what they need to do.

“It delivers a better service.”

Long service awards were presented to Trevor Chrisp, Daniel Fitton and Deb Williams for five years of service, Clynton Robinson for 15 years of service, and George Dimech was awarded for 35 years of service.

VICSES Storm Pins were distributed to members who contributed to the storm event on 10 June 2021, and Flood Pins went to those who assisted during the floods that impacted the community between 11 and 22 October 2022.

Awarded both the Regional and State Awards for Excellence, Peter Duncan said there were a number of people who contributed to the implementation of the Trello project management tool.

2021 Storm Pins were awarded to Aaron Plumridge, Burt Redstone, Clynton Robinson, Damian Muscovich, Darren O’Connor, Deb Williams, Des Hogan, George Dimech, Jack McClean, Mark Pitt, Marie Ellis, Mel Thompson, Pete Zenz, Peter Duncan, Sally Duncan, Sandra Emond, Scott Emond, Steve Johnson, Steve Kern, Tanya Brnjak and Trevor Chrisp.

2022 Flood Pins were awarded to Aaron Plumridge, Ali Sarisandal, Clynton Robinson, Damian Muscovich, Deb Williams, George Dimech, Jack McClean, Mark Pitt, Marie Ellis, Mel Thompson, Pete Zenz, Peter Duncan, Sally Duncan, Sandra Emond, Scott Emond, Steve Johnson, Trevor Chrisp and Trevor Rawson.

“I really appreciate all the effort everyone puts in,” said Heathcote SES unit controller Darren O’Connor.

“We all get along so well and work together.”