Mr. Orchard was elected into the new position on August 1 and is replacing Mrs. Carmel Page, who has been a member of Crookwell SES for 20 years.

“I have really big ‘L’ plates on my back at the moment.” Mr. Orchard explained.

“I will have to juggle my time a lot more now as I own and operate a fulltime local business as well.

“This SES position is also fulltime 24/7 and I know it can be a demanding job, but I am looking forward to helping the community through our local SES branch.”

Mrs. Page isn’t leaving SES completely, but is just stepping down to Deputy Controller to help Nick's transition into the Controllers role a lot smoother.

“After 20 years, 12 of those as Controller, I have to take a step back and let the younger ones take the reins,” she said. “I can’t let go completely though, if Nick or the team needs some extra assistance or guidance I will always be available to offer that.”

Mr. Dave Page, Carmel’s son, who also has clocked up 20 years of voluntary service to the Crookwell SES, has taken on a new role as Training Coordinator and Unit Team Leader. Dave is stepping down from his role as Deputy Controller, a position he has held for over 10 years,

to concentrate on Unit Training.

And in keeping it in the family, Dave’s father Mr. Darryl Page is another veteran of 20 years of service to Crookwell SES, and is currently the Unit Duty Officer.

None of Page Family intends on giving up just yet, and are still very committed to serving the Crookwell Community for a few years yet.

SES to the rescue

SES is more than just covering a house in bad weather with tarps or sandbagging the odd driveway in a flood. It is about community safety and the community knowing that help is local and only a few moments away when they call.

Yes, there will be locals coming around to help you, and a familiar face is more reassuring in an emergency situation. Thanks to local volunteers.

The Crookwell SES unit are primarily responsive to all flood and storm emergencies and may also be called in for land search and rescue, highway accidents to provide lighting and also support for the other Emergency Services in the area, Police, Rural Fire Service (RFS),

Fire Brigade, and Ambulance, in a major incident or for special operations and administrative support.

The local SES is also a familiar face at community engagements. They can provide first aid, advice on storm preparation and advice at community events.

They have access to a fully stocked information van and their mascot ‘Paddy the Platypus’ hands out show bags to raise awareness and provide valuable information to the community at special functions, fetes, markets, etc.

The Crookwell SES has two ready response teams of five members and a flood boat team of three. They have a fully trained administrations team but at present the group only has 15 active voluntary members.

They need more volunteers!

If you have moved into the area and are looking for a way to become active within the community, or if you have any previous SES training from another district you can transfer quite easily. So if you have a few hours to spare each week, then you will warmly be welcomed.

The storm season is fast approaching and from September each year the Crookwell SES is busy. If you are interested in becoming a volunteer member of the Crookwell SES, you need to apply and are also required to complete a probation period of three months. You will be fully trained at unit level and are supported by an enthusiastic, well trained team along the way.

The modern day SES is a workplace and safety is the number 1 policy. You will become a part of a keen, friendly, ready for action team. SES is a hard job, but, it is a very rewarding role. Crookwell SES are a fun, dedicated group and you will learn a lot about community safety, community involvement, plus you learn some great skills along the way.

If you are interested in joining or would like to learn more about the opportunities SES can offer, then please phone Nick Orchard on 0417283267 or send him an email at nicholas.orchard@member.ses.nsw.gov.au.