Forty years celebrated

By Lachlan Ellis

A local SES branch has celebrated its 40th anniversary, launching a book comprised of stories, photos, and memories from its time serving the community.

While the VICSES Bacchus Marsh Unit celebrated the anniversary itself on 19 November last year, its 40th anniversary book ‘Lost in the Gorge and Other Emergencies’ was officially launched on Sunday 21 May this year.

Compiled by local author and SES volunteer Lyn Purcell, the book takes a look back at the branch’s long history since it was founded back in 1982.
Unit Controller Bill Robson said recent events had shown how important the SES’ training was.

“It’s when we have a major incident like the Exford School bus crash that we realise all our training is worthwhile. The unit had twelve members who worked alongside the other emergency services to assist the children who were trapped in the bus,” Mr Robson said.

The book launch was attended by local SES members and friends of the Unit, as well as Tim Wiebusch (Chief Officer Operations VICSES), Michaela Settle (State Member for Eureka), Cr Rod Ward (Mayor of Moorabool Shire) and Steve McGhie (State Member for Melton).

Ms Purcell said the Unit wanted to share with its community a picture of its service over the years from 1982 to 2022, rather than waiting for the usual 50-year celebrations.

The book is available from the local newsagent in Main Street Bacchus Marsh, or from the SES unit any Tuesday training night (7.30pm – 9.30 pm) for $30 a copy.