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“We just wanted to help out the Cobram community, and we would like to get more experience and learn more about the SES,” Nathaniel said.

As far as records indicate, they are the first volunteers of Solomon Islands birth to join the Victorian SES in its 50-year history.

When they’re not working at the nearby JBS plant, the trio don their neon overalls to learn as much as they can about emergency response.

Seeing a chance to give back to the community while learning new skills, the trio put their hands up to volunteer in December last year.

The trio is hoping to take all the skills and knowledge they learn at the Cobram SES Unit with them when they eventually return home.

“When we gain the skills and knowledge here, it’s more valuable in our culture in Solomon, when we go back,” Peter said.

“When we go back, we can apply the skills.”

With the support of the unit’s existing team, like unit controller Luke Herezo and Teresa Mantovani, the three friends successfully passed their 3-month probation.

As of last month, they’re officially part of the unit.

But it hasn’t all been an easy ride, with the language barrier - and Australia’s colourful colloquialisms - presenting one hurdle.

“It’s been very challenging because English is our second language, and Australian language is very difficult also,” Nathaniel said.

Cobram SES Unit Controller Luke Herezo said it was very refreshing to have the trio part of the team.

“They’re definitely an energetic bunch to have around,” he said.

“It’s been good to have them, along with our other new members, going through the basic skill sets that every member learns,” he said.

“Obviously, we have a lot of transient community in Cobram, so to be able to connect with them and individuals in the different communities has been fantastic.“