When a natural disaster strikes, such as storm, earthquake, or flood, State Emergency Service (SES) volunteers can be found assisting the local community and helping people get back on their feet.

SES volunteers provide a wide range of services to help people cope with the effects of natural disasters ranging from emergency repairs on buildings, to restoration of essential services and ferrying cargo and passengers across flood waters.

Responding to the effects of natural disasters is only part of SES’ responsibility. Volunteers also carry out land search and cliff rescues.

The SES is a large team and many volunteers work behind the scenes as radio or computer operators, administration or incident control, planning and logistics. These different roles allow all parts of a community to join in and work with the SES.

Equally important is the safety education role of the SES. Volunteers actively promote prevention and preparation measures in visits to service groups, senior centres and homes, local business and schools.

SES volunteer training includes:

  • First aid
  • Map reading and navigation
  • Land search techniques
  • Storm damage techniques
  • General rescue
  • Radio communications
  • Leadership
  • Management
  • Driving vehicles for emergencies
  • Road accident rescue
  • Single rope techniques (abseiling) and vertical rescue
  • Ground support for fire services.

The Gosnells SES Unit meet and train regularly at the City of Gosnells Emergency Operations Centre, located at 16 Horley Road in Beckenham.

If you are interested in learning more and getting involved in any of these activities call the Gosnells SES Unit on 6350 5930.