Women in SES share skills at rescue event

MORE than 40 women from across the Loddon Mallee region took part in the VICSES Women in Rescue event in Echuca recently.

Heathcote SES was represented by Mel Thompson who has been involved with the organisation of the event for several years.

“I am really looking forward to sharing the experience and skills learned with the Heathcote Unit,” she said.

“Ultimately, it will benefit the whole community.”

Women in Rescue is an annual event designed to allow women in the service the opportunity to network, develop and improve skills, and share knowledge and experience.

Designed by women for women, this year the format was in a very different format, allowing for training in yet another key VICSES role, Land Search.

“The event was held at Billabong Ranch in Echuca,” said Thompson.

“The SES members undertook training sessions during the day in various skills required for land search including a presentation by the Victoria Police Missing Persons Squad.

“Later that evening, we participated in an in-depth multi-agency land search alongside VICPOL, in neighbouring paddocks and bushland.”

SES Heathcote Unit welcomes new members.

Volunteers assist during storms, floods, road crashes and searches and are provided with training and protective equipment.

Anyone interested in joining the SES Heathcote Unit can contact unit controller Darren O’Connor on 0418 543 626 or visit the unit headquarters in Wright Street on Thursday nights from 7pm.