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Bendigo SES has urged people to be cautious of callers claiming to be fundraising on behalf of the SES.
A statement on the Victoria State Emergency Service website said many Victorians had received phone calls about the purchase of raffle tickets, which the caller claimed was for the benefit of VICSES volunteers.
“Victoria State Emergency Service does not seek donations via phone,” the statement said.
“When VICSES volunteers do collect donations from their communities, they wear full uniform and carry photo identification identifying them as volunteers from their local VICSES unit.
“Whenever anyone asks for donations on our behalf, always check their credentials.”
The organisation believes many of the complaints might relate to a fundraising raffle being conducted by the National State Emergency Service Volunteer Association.
Victorian residents might be cold-called to ask if they would like to purchase raffle tickets, money from which which VICSES said would benefit all SES associations.
But the calls will be from representatives of One Contact, a national sales company commissioned by NSESVA to run the raffle.
“If we ask for money or other donations, we will be standing in front of you, in orange uniform, presenting our photo ID.. often with a letter on official letter head, if it relates to donations of items to be used as raffle prizes,” Bendigo SES said in a statement issued on social media.
Natalie Stanway, of Bendigo SES, said it had been about three years since the city’s volunteers were door knocking.
They were then doing so in support of the Tour de Beechworth.
The Bendigo unit urged people to report any calls relating to the scam.
“Note the phone number if you can. We really don't want people taking our name in vain,” the social media statement read.
VICSES suggested people contact their local unit directly to offer support.
Further details about the NSEVSA raffle are available at www.nsesva.org.au