SES service awards

Warragul SES Unit celebrated the dedicated service achievements of volunteer members at a recent function.

Thirty years of service was achieved by the dedicated Pasquale Defazio and Peter Wood, whilst Kathleen Paynter and David Richardsere acknowledged for 20 years..

“We are extremely proud of what our members have achieved,” said Warragul SES Unit controller Raelyn Ziebe. “Their dedication and commitment speaks for itself, and we could not be more grateful for their time and investment in protecting their community”.

Pasquale Defazio joined VICSES in 1984 and has been a committed member ever since. “Pas”, as he was affectionately known, has left to concentrate on his family. However, he will be remembered in appreciation for all his hard work at Warragul.

Peter Wood also received his 30-year service award. Peter has attended an impressive 972 emergency call outs since 2009 when records began. What an incredible achievement.

Kathleen Paynter and David Richards received well deserved 20-year service awards for dedicated and ongoing service to the Warragul and surrounding community.

The importance of family and employers’ support in enabling volunteers to respond to emergencies was recognised as vital..

“Families, friends and employers play a critical support role for our volunteers,” said Ms Ziebe. “It’s this support that ensures our members can be there to help their communities when they’re in need, 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year. Whether it’s time off work, picking up the kids from school, heating up dinner, or being there for a hug after a long day or night – their support means everything to us.”

For information on volunteering with VICSES in your area, visit ses.vic.gov.au/volunteer.