Ms Grayland joined Bendigo SES in 2007 along with her partner Briana Burgin.

SES volunteer Natalie Stanway said Ms Grayland brought many skills to the unit from her military experience and held the respect of all in the unit.  

"She not only had an exemplary record for attending jobs, she was also a key contributor to all the work required behind the scenes to keep the unit operating," she said.

"Donna showed leadership from the beginning of her membership, and was an officer in the unit's management structure.

"She could always be relied upon to guide newer members, to provide the answers to any question, and to add humour to any conversation.  

"She was the original quiet achiever, never seeking and actively resisting, recognition for her contribution.

"Her motivation was seeing the community being supported in their time of need. 

"Donna also had a passion for the Bendigo Spirit basketball team, being a founding member of the Spirit Army, and a keen follower of the Bendigo Dragons Gridiron team.  

Ms Grayland is survived by her partner Briana and their daughter Dani. 

"She will be sorely missed by all at Bendigo SES and all who knew her," Ms Stanway said.