The next generation of NSW State Emergency Service (SES) leaders have come together in Sydney this weekend.
The NSW SES Emerging Leaders Summit brought together 40 of the brightest 16- to 24-year-olds from around the state for professional growth and development.
NSW SES Deputy Commissioner Daniel Austin said participants from communities as diverse as Albury, Tweed Heads and Broken Hill came away empowered from the workshops.
“These young volunteers are the future of the NSW SES,” Deputy Commissioner Austin said.
“This weekend saw volunteers work on leadership development, goal setting, career planning, and creating important networks and connections.
“We looked at various strategies promoting our values, growing our organisation and promoting positive change.”
Over the weekend the participants got to test their skills at flood rescues at the Nepean River, and also went through first aid and rescue scenarios.
Natalie Overall, a young volunteer from Menai Unit said it was great to connect with other young volunteers at the Youth Summit.
“There’s so many fun things to learn, you meet so many awesome people. I’ve learned so many skills like flood boats, going up on roofs, going on land searches. I find it really fun, and find it really rewarding as well,” Natalie Overall said.
Deputy Commissioner Austin said it was wonderful to see like-minded individuals come together and create lasting relationships and friendships.
“These training and development activities are so important,” he said.
“The connections our members make also assist us years down the track when members may be deployed as part of incident teams right across the state.
“We’re empowering them to take on leadership roles in their communities, and by investing in our young leaders, we’ll reap the benefits for years to come.”
For emergency help in floods and storms, call the NSW SES on 132 500. In life threatening situations, call Triple Zero (000) immediately.
