SES volunteers

The Hobsons Bay SES provides emergency assistance during floods, storms and other emergency events 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

We chat to the Hobsons Bay unit controller Mel Smith about the vital service they provide to the community and what inspired her to volunteer.

Mel started volunteering with the Hobsons Bay SES unit in 2022 after she experienced flooding in 2021.

“I was staying with a friend when we were evacuated from the home and went to a relief centre. The support and empathy we received from the

SES volunteers was incredible and I thought I could do that!” said Mel.

“I love the sense of community that volunteering provides. There is something really special about helping a community member in what may be one of their hardest days or being part of large-scale training exercises. That feeling never gets old and is the reason our volunteers keep coming back.”

On average, the Hobsons Bay SES responds to between 250 and 350 requests each year.

When Hobsons Bay had its biggest storm event in a few years in February last year, the SES received over 40 requests for assistance that were all cleared over a 30-hour period.

“The community should call SES on 132500 when they need emergency assistance during a flood, storm, tsunami, earthquake or landslide,” said Mel.

“This could be that a tree is blocking a road, or a tree has fallen on your house. For life threatening emergencies, call 000.”

Volunteers also assist other agencies such as Victoria Police, Fire Rescue Victoria and Ambulance Victoria in searching for missing people, at crime scenes and general rescue duties.

In addition to responding to local emergencies, Hobsons Bay SES members travel across Victoria and even interstate to provide support in major events.

Volunteers also have non-operational roles such as managing finances, maintaining equipment, vehicles and facilities, and attending community events, fundraising and member training.

Mel encourages anyone who is community-minded, enjoys teamwork and is willing to commit time to training and emergency response to consider volunteering.

“Many volunteers are attracted to the role because of the opportunity to help their community during emergencies, gain valuable skills, and work as part of a dedicated team,” said Mel.

“It’s a great opportunity for those looking to make a positive impact and develop new skills.

Since joining the SES, I have conquered my fear of heights, learnt how to use a chainsaw and drive a truck."

The Hobsons Bay SES is part of the Victoria State Emergency Services (VICSES) and made up of members from the Hobsons Bay area.

VICSES does not charge a call-out fee for its services, but without community support, it would not be able to purchase much needed equipment. You can donate to the Hobsons Bay Unit at givenow.com.au/hobsonsbayses

For more information about volunteering with the SES, visit ses.vic.gov.au/join-us/volunteer