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Busiest month on record for VICSES volunteers

Nov 4, 2022

Busy: October was the busiest month on record for Victoria’s SES. Photo by Bransen Gibson

October 2022 was been the busiest month in history for Victoria’s State Emergency Service (VICSES), with volunteers responding to a staggering 13,705 RFAs (requests for assistance).

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It’s almost a 28 per cent increase on the previous record of 10,740 requests, set in June 2021.

SES volunteers have been tirelessly working to provide emergency assistance during October’s significant and extensive flooding rains, storms and destructive winds.

The busiest volunteer units during October have included: Shepparton and Tatura (more than 1600 RFAs) Echuca (650), Bendigo (482), Rochester (462) and Kerang (232).

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

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

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.