The Wyndham West SES Unit’s open day is all about opening up opportunities for members of the community that might have what it takes to help others.
Visit the control centre at 416 Ballan Road in Wyndham Vale on Sunday, June 15, to learn how the unit helps those in the trickiest of positions.
Guests will be able to see equipment demonstrations and meet the team, while younger visitors can explore the ‘kids’ corner.’
From dealing with fallen trees and damaged buildings all the way to the loss of life, the unit is always busy.
Unit controller Tim Smiley said helping others is a gift.
“Anytime a person is in need and just being able to give them a hand is more rewarding than anything I can think of,” he said.
“The ideal volunteer is basically anyone who is not in it for self motivation, you’ve got to be in for the whole municipality – every job is important.”
“I think a lot of people feel held back because they don’t have a skillset, but every skill needed is taught at the Monday night training sessions.”
Among the first skills taught to new members are how to tie knots, use electricity generators and ladder placement.
“Even if they are not at a grade where they can go on rooftops, they can do lighting and ladders, so that way every time they go out on a job they are part of a team,” Mr Smiley said.
The event is free and runs 11am-4pm.
