Community Service

Being a volunteer in the SES is a community service activity in itself. However, our members assist a number of worthy causes throughout the year and help community groups or charities raise money or by assisting them with a resource we may have.

Whilst some of the storm damage emergencies we are called to are not really an emergency, we complete the job anyway. Often the complainant is an elderly person so we understand that they cannot afford or do the job themselves.

During the Gas Crisis in 1999 we decided to try and lift the spirits of the local Eltham community. We purchased hundreds of sausages and asked the Salvation Army Emergency Services if they would help us put on a large BBQ in the town park. This was quite successful and we had lots of people come down and have a chat with us whilst having some dinner.

Each year we assist the Salvation Army with their Red Shield Appeal fund-raising drive. We conduct a tin rattle on the corner of Bridge and Main Road in Eltham and collect a substantial amount for them. The Salvation Army do a wonderful job and we are pleased to be able to repay them for the good work they do.

We have provided lighting for outside functions such as bush dances or Christmas carols by candlelight. A small fee to cover fuel costs is usually all we ask and our lighting tower and extensive light banks are put to good use.

In the years between 1999 and 2004 we have participated in the annual Bluey Day head shave helping raise money for kids with cancer at the Royal Childrens Hosipital. For $1000 each our members will shave all their hair off. In 1999 we had five volunteers and in 2000, eight volunteers. This fund raising activity is a great challenge and very worthwhile. All the sausage sizzles and days sitting in shoppings centres is worth it when you see how you are helping the kids.

The annual Eltham Fun Run held by the Eltham Leisure Centre is an event where we help with drink stands and some logistics. A portion of the money raised during this event is directed to the SES which we are grateful for. The 600 or so runners also appreciate the drink stops as the run is very challenging.

Use this link to visit our event request page if you wish SES to attend your public relations or community safety event.

Typical SES Tasks

• Intersection collection for the Salvation Army - Red Shield Appeal
• Fund raising for the Bluey Day - Shave your head for kids with cancer appeal
• Lighting at specific Christmas Carols events
• Logistics support to the Eltham Fun Run held every November by the Eltham Liesure Centre
• Providing emergency power or lighting to critical infrastructure
• Clearing falled trees from driveways of elderly or disabled residents (if we are not operational and we have time)
• Public relations and rescue displays to Scouts, Cubs, Joey Scouts, Guides, schools and other community groups