Community & Business
26 March, 2025
Call for locals to volunteer for SES
THE SES are calling for more people to volunteer for their local groups to assist communities in disaster-related events and equip themselves with life-saving knowledge and skills.
Atherton SES local controller Kylie Lang said volunteering for the SES “makes you more capable for your own property and your neighbouring properties”.
“Not only are you helping other people, but you can also help yourself when you need to,” she said.
“It helps you build those skills to better prepare for disaster-related events.
“The duty for each SES group is different. Our group does a lot of floods, flood boat operations, or land searches. It varies depending on the season.
“We’re always looking for more members, the more we have the better.”
Mareeba SES local controller Darrin Pearson said the organisation’s numbers were “a little bit low”.
“It would be great if we can attract some more members,” he said.
“At Mareeba SES, we do a lot of storm damage work, so sand bagging and tarping.
“We also work at heights, use flood boats and do land searches.
“We even have a drone that picks up heat signatures to assist with our searches.
“I think people should join because it’s satisfying be able to assist people in the community and you’re also able to equip yourself in disaster related events.”
Atherton SES hold a training session once a week, but Ms Lang noted “it’s pretty flexible”.
“Not everyone has to come every week, but you should attend regularly to stay up to date on your training,” she said.
The Mareeba branch requires 100 hours per year, which roughly adds up to the two-hour meetings they hold every Tuesday evening.
“We have meetings every Tuesday to keep updated on our tasks and skills, and complete training courses,” Mr Pearson said.
Atherton SES is located at 44 Mabel Street and the Mareeba base is located at 47 Strattman Street.
To join the SES, visit their website at www.ses.qld.gov.au.
