One member was recognised for 10 years of service and three members were recognised for five years.
Senior Assistance Chief Officer Eastern Region Ray Jasper admired the years of State Emergency Service (SES) by the award recipients at the Dunlop Street-based Yarrawonga Unit.
“The Australian average length of service of SES members is two to two-and-a-half years,” he told the 55 attendees at the presentation dinner on October 30.
“The ever-changing evolution of emergency management sees many changes to our great organisation. The one thing that remains unchanged is the dedication and tireless commitment our volunteers make to our region and their respective communities.”
Mr Jasper emphasised the significance of the SES workers. “Your contribution to the VICSES is incredible, not to mention the tireless number of hours spent away from your loved ones while serving your communities, whether this be operational or attending training courses,” the Senior Assistance Chief Officer Eastern Region said.
“Your dedication to the service does not go unrecognised.
“We have the privilege of recognising your outstanding service. It’s a highlight of operational activity within the region.”
Mr Jasper announced the VICSES Long Service Medal awards to Robert Russo for his 10 years, and certificate and badge to Chloe Forber, Cory Seccull and Thomas Leslie, each for their five years.
Five members – Jason Thomas, Richard Franklin, Samual Nunn, Jason Forber and Graham Wilson – received Long Service and National Medals for 15 years.
Two particularly special awards were presented to Gerald Nunn – a 1st Clasp for 25 years of service and a third Clasp to former SES Controller, Des O’Meara ESM OAM in respect of his 45 years comprising 36 SES years and nine with defence service.
The VIC SES Long Service Award recognises diligent service of VICSES members. A 5-year certificate and badge are awarded, followed by the Long Service medal at 10 years and a certificate, clasp and lapel badge for each further five years of service. The national medal is awarded for 15 years of active service.
The SES Yarrawonga Unit commenced as a Civil Defence branch in 1968, moving to VICSES in 1975.
“Jason (Yarrawonga Unit Controller Jason Forber) is a very strong advocate for you,” Mr Jasper said.
Mr Forber expressed his appreciation for all the awards and to his unit members. “Everything you do is 110 per cent and I appreciate what you do, and to ClubMulwala for its support of this special presentation dinner,” he said.
Mr Jasper also had pleasure in presenting what he believes to be a first for Victoria, A VICSES Excellence Award in Community Engagement.
“This is a new award and I believe this is the first to be presented in Victoria,” he said, announcing one of Yarrawonga’s deputy controllers, Laura Nish, as the worthy recipient.
“Laura has been leading the Yarrawonga CEF (Community Engagement Facilitator) team for four years. In that time she has completely transformed the way the Yarrawonga Unit engages in CEF activities,” Mr Jasper said.
“Laura actively represents the Yarrawonga Unit at public events, prompting VICSES and what we do. Laura’s passion and enthusiasm for community engagement is why she is being awarded an VICSES Excellence Award in Community Engagement.”
The presentation dinner was another significant occasion in the history of the Yarrawonga SES Unit. “We thank everyone involved in taking the opportunity to have this special presentation dinner, acknowledging the long service achievements of our members,” Jason told the Yarrawonga Chronicle.
