Volunteer humbled by award
VOLUNTEERS for the State Emergency Service (SES) are one of a kind.
As part of SES Week, nine individuals, one unit and one group in the South West region were recognised for their selfless contributions and dedication to the community on Saturday.
Recipient of the Regional Member of the Year award was Western Downs district controller Sharna Pogan.
Starting out as a volunteer with the SES during the 2010/2011 floods, Ms Pogan said her desire to make a difference is what drew her to sign up.
Four years ago, the devoted volunteer was appointed district controller, all the while balancing a full-time job and her roles as mother and wife.
“You learn very quickly as a volunteer how to balance everything and sometimes people do need to put their families on the back burner,” Ms Pogan said.
“I’ve been very blessed because my husband and son have both joined the SES as volunteers too, so I get to spend a bit of time with them out on the job sometimes.”
Nominated by her peers for ”putting more hours into (the SES) than there are in a day” and her “passion for serving community”, Ms Pogan said she was full of gratitude.
“You get lost for words... I feel very privileged to work with such a great bunch of people in the SES,” she said.
“It’s a real team effort – we couldn’t do it without the entire crew and I’m just so proud to be part of it.”
The SES provides immediate assistance during state emergencies, natural disasters and day-to-day incidents that may require rescue or search services.
“I always tell people you see us when you don’t need us, but everyone always gives us a big smile or sigh of relief when we knock on their door,” she said.
“You don’t expect it but there’s nothing more rewarding than hearing someone say thank you.
“If you can get up every day and make a difference to one person, then the world is a greater place.”
SES Week recognises the outstanding efforts of its staff and volunteers and runs until October 17.