SES head passes on the torch

THE Unit Controller of a local SES branch has passed the role on, with the Unit’s new Controller saying he’s honoured to take on the title.

Bill Robson stood down as Unit Controller of the Bacchus Marsh SES Unit after more than six years in the role last month, with the Unit announcing the change last week.

Stepping up and becoming the new Unit Controller is Mick Schembri, who has served as ‘Deputy Controller – Members’ for the past six years.

Mr Schembri said being appointed Unit Controller made him feel “immensely proud to be able to lead such an amazing group of people”.

“Over the next few years we are planning on expanding our service footprint within Moorabool Shire and are aiming to open a satellite headquarters in Ballan within 2 to 3 years,” Mr Schembri said.

“This will take some work as we will need to secure land and build a new facility.

“Very soon we will be increasing the capability of the unit with the introduction of a second Rescue Truck to the town.

“This will ensure our volunteers can continue to provide the best possible service to Bacchus Marsh and surrounds.”

Mr Schembri has been a member of the Bacchus Marsh SES Unit since he first moved to Bacchus Marsh around a decade ago, and said it was difficult to pick just one favourite story during his time as a volunteer.

“There are too many stories to pick just one, but it is the little things that stand out,” he said.

“From people bringing out lunch and having a chat after we have removed a tree from their roof, to the letters we receive from families of people we have helped, and even occasionally meeting the people themselves weeks or months later.

“It makes volunteering an extremely rewarding experience.”

Mr Schembri also thanked everyone in town for their ongoing generous support – especially the families of the Unit’s members.

“We couldn’t do what we do without that support at home, and from the community,” he said.