Local unit casts net for new recruits

THE need to service the growing community in the Surf Coast, Torquay and Anglesea has spurred a local first responder unit to run a pre-summer recruiting drive, as one of the Surf Coast’s busiest periods quickly approaches.

Special Emergency Services (SES) Torquay is on the hunt for up to 10 new volunteers to join its ranks ahead of summer, after a successful recruitment program late last year.

SES Torquay unit controller Mark Heaysman said the unit had not done any recruiting in the past 12 months, but there was a need and opportunity to increase its member numbers and build new skills for the unit to serve the community.

“We’ve got a good number of members now, sitting comfortably at around 27, but we really want to keep building the units capability and technical skills.

“These skills will help with the type of callouts, Requests for Assistance.

“We’re just looking for more members as well to be honest, who might want to enjoy helping the community.”

 

 

 

The unit held two information sessions earlier this week, but Mr Heaysman said anyone was able to visit the unit’s base at 132 Messmate Road by making a time to meet.

Mr Heaysman joined the SES two and a half years ago and was appointed controller in July this year, taking the reins over from John Symington after his second, two-year stewardship of the unit.

Callouts can cover a range of situations, whether it be fallen/downed trees, rescues, damaged property, or supporting other agencies and first response branches.

Anyone interested in becoming an SES volunteer will need to go through a selection and screening process to ensure they understand the role and can meet the time commitments required for volunteer duties.

New members will also need to complete a three-month probation period before they become fully operational.

Mr Heaysman spoke highly of the culture within his unit, citing the SES as a wonderful way to meet and connect with other residents on the Surf Coast.

“One of the reasons I joined was to meet new people in the area as I moved to Torquay, I also find great joy in giving back to my community, and we have such a diverse group of people as members,” he said.

“We have a good mix of ages, nationalities, and gender, which is really important when it comes to camaraderie and serving the community.

“Everyone goes there for the same purpose, no matter if you’re an at-home parent, executive, student or a tradie, it’s great to be a part of.”

For more information on volunteering at the SES, head to ses.vic.gov.au/join-us or email Mark Heaysman at [email protected]