Have you ever considered finding out what it’s like to be a member of the Forbes branch of the State Emergency Service (SES) and what they do?
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You will be able to find out on Saturday, January 19 when the Forbes branch of the SES will open its doors in a bid to show the community what the vital organisation does.
The Forbes branch of the SES is located on the corner of School Road and Farnell Street with the open day running from from 10am to 2pm.
Forbes SES Controller Roc Walshaw said the open day is a chance for local SES members to demonstrate the skills they use in times of need.
The Forbes branch is called upon to assist – in storm operations, rescue operations, road accidents and other emergency situations.
We are currently in the midst of a high bushfire danger period and summer storm season, potentially a busy time for the SES.
“We are looking for people to join the SES, we’re here to help the community,” Mr Walshaw said.
During the open day, a barbecue and drinks will be available for anyone who gets slightly peckish.
A face painting booth will be up and running for the kids and Paddy the SES Platypus will be making a visit.
Also on offer during the open day are several demonstrations of what the SES does, which includes a virtual car crash rescue.
You don’t need to have any special skills to volunteer for the SES, with regular weekly training sessions for SES members.
Mr Walshaw said they accept people of all ability to become an SES volunteer, with a minimum age requirement of 16.
There are a range of roles that SES volunteers could undertake, ranging from on-the-ground support, assisting in operational support roles or raising community awareness
“There is always a job for everybody,” Mr Walshaw said.
The Forbes branch of the SES host regular training sessions on Wednesday evenings to teach and maintain skills to be called upon when needed.
It can encompass chainsaw, road accident, flood boat, roof tarpaulin training, or training for rescues from heights or depths, for example.
Mr Walshaw said the open day is a chance to have a close look at what the Forbes branch of the SES does.
For more information about the SES head to www.ses.nsw.gov.au/
