The inaugural open day of the NSW SES Parkes Unit last Saturday was a huge success with a large crowd turning up to learn more about the services on offer.
“We are very happy with the turn out and support of the community,” said Phil Snow, Local Controller. He was even happier that six new volunteers have signed up filling out applications forms, with another four interested in joining up.
“We are about 18 volunteers at the moment, and could do with at least another ten,” said Phil. “I would be happy with whatever number we get.”
He said all volunteers would have to undergo basic training, but there were different roles for different people. “Whatever your fitness level, background, skills or training, you can always contribute in some way,” he said.
Different fields of interest include operations management, communications, logistics, community education, catering, maintenance or planning. These are all valuable skills that support the more visible field and response work. “Each volunteer puts in how much time they are able to, and take the opportunities they would like to,” said Phil.
Visitors last Saturday were treated with show bags, sausage sizzles, displays on preparing your property for storm damage, flooding and general rescue techniques, while the rescue demonstrations proved to be the highlight of the day. Volunteer Matthew Hando’s vertical rescue demonstration was not for the faint hearted.
After the success of the inaugural day, the Parkes SES Unit is motivated to make it an annual event.