Shepparton and Tatura volunteers the busiest in Victoria during October

By Anna McGuinness

Nov 4, 2022

Teamwork: Tatura SES unit controller Bec Gould and Shepparton Search and Rescue president Nacole Standfield during preparations for the October floods. Photo: Megan Fisher. Photo by Megan Fisher

Shepparton Search and Rescue and Tatura SES were the busiest volunteer units in Victoria during October, as the SES had a record-breaking month across the state.

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With floods, storms and destructive winds, October’s 13,705 requests for assistance well surpassed the previous record of 10,740 set in June 2021.

Shepparton Search and Rescue and Tatura SES received more than 1600 RFAs during October, while Echuca (650) and Rochester (462) were also run off their feet.

It was a big jump for Shepparton and Tatura’s volunteers, whose average monthly callouts sit around 72 for Shepparton and 31 for Tatura.

VICSES chief officer of operations Tim Wiebusch said he was incredibly proud of the resilience and dedication of the 5000 SES volunteers across Victoria.

“It’s been an incredibly busy month for our VICSES volunteers responding to multiple severe weather events,” he said.

“I’m really proud of the work our VICSES volunteers have undertaken and continue to do to assist so many community members, with great support from our partner agencies.”

Mr Wiebusch also recognised the important role of employers and families who enabled volunteers to respond to emergencies.

He said the record-breaking month was a timely reminder for Victorians to download the VicEmergency app for warnings and advice, and check the VicTraffic app or website before travelling for updates on road closures and hazards.

If you need VICSES emergency assistance ring 132 500, or call 000 in a life-threatening emergency.