The region’s SES units are hoping to get a boost in numbers on Wednesday.
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Bendigo SES will hold a recruitment information night for anyone interested in joining the volunteer organisation.
Nadine Guymer has been an SES volunteer for 15 years and knows what it takes.
“We usually recruit (new volunteers) about twice a year depending on how many people sign up or drop out (of the unit),” she said.
“There’s no experience necessary, all the training you need is provided there.
“Our main operational recruitment drive covers places such as all around the region but we all train at the one (place).”
Ms Guymer said the information night would give people a good idea of whether they wanted to join.
“We want to give everyone an idea of what we do. It’s not just (going to) car accidents, there are other jobs and searches that we train for,” she said.
“The following week, if people are still interested after the information night, everyone goes through an interview.
“They are just general questions about what you do and why you want to volunteer, so we can get a feel of if people would be suited for the SES.”
According to Ms Guymer, the most surprising thing about joining the SES was the level of commitment required.
“It is a huge commitment. You have to maintain 60 per cent of your training. People are surprised at the commitment it takes to be a volunteer,” she said.
“But all training is provided there and it you need to go away and do a course, it’s paid for.”
Ms Guymer said she has been involved with the SES for 15 years.
“Originally, when I signed up it was with the Kerang unit. It was just wanting to help people and having something to do. I gained a love for it,” she said.
The Bendgio SES information night is on Wednesday, March 7, from 7pm at the Bendigo SES Local Headquarters, 64 Adam Street, Bendigo.
Anyone interested can register interested by emailing nadine.guymer@members.ses.vic.gov.au