IT can be a constant search, trying to marry all of the fun, challenging and adventurous aspects of life into a job you love.
For Benjamin Pickup though, a local volunteer member at the Armidale-Dumaresq State Emergency Service it is a dream come true.
Drawing on his five years of volunteer service experience, Ben has been successful in gaining employment through the Namoi Region NSW SES Headquarters as Business Services Officer.
Armidale SES Unit’s local controller, Elaine Towner said the appointment was “an asset for them, a loss for us. We couldn’t be happier for Ben.”
The Armidale SES Unit has responded to around 500 requests for assistance in storms, floods and rescues over the past 18 months.
Recent rescues have included supporting two Westpac Rescue helicopter retrievals out of Blue Hole and Oxley Wild Rivers National Park with volunteer members trekking through the night to secure and ensure the comfort of the injured person.
“About eight of us got to the injured hiker with the Ambulance paramedics at about 2am,” Ben said.
“After getting past the river crossing with the stretcher it just seemed much more practical for all to light a fire while waiting until dawn.
“It was a good outcome too as the casualty was able to be airlifted at the new site. The whole team worked well with what limited provisions were available as this was definitely not a planned camping trip! But we do this work because we love it!”
Besides rescues, the SES is the lead combat agency through floods and storms and also works throughout the community to support local events.
“As a volunteer it is very rewarding being able to help people in times of great need, we have the opportunity to engage with our community and hopefully make a positive difference to people’s lives” Ben said.
“It is not something I will be giving up in a hurry now it is also my day job!…it just means I can put more time into it.”
New members are always welcome at Armidale Dumaresq SES, to volunteer or for more information phone (02) 6776 4050.
For emergency flood or storm assistance phone the SES on 132 500.
