YOU hear the saying ‘it’s a thankless job’ from people who work hard and receive very few rewards in return. SES San Remo unit controller Mandy Chancellor said a volunteer can sometimes feel this way; their work may go unnoticed by the community, by friends, or by family.
“When I was appointed Unit Controller of SES San Remo, I promised myself as a leader I would do my best to make sure everyone felt valued. My priority was the members of the unit and to other emergency services personnel that we work with. After this, it was important to me that the community knew they also mattered,” Mandy explained.
“Today, we would like to say thank you to the community of Bass Coast, to everyone who has supported, encouraged, and generously donated to SES San Remo and other SES units in the shire.
“We thank the organisation, the social groups, the businesses, and the individuals who have consistently made us feel visible and valued.”
The last two years have seen tragedy and triumph, but SES have not travelled that journey alone.
“Special thanks to Jordan Crugnale MP, and Rochelle Halstead, Mayor of Bass Coast Shire, who, without fail, texted or called to make sure SES members are okay and to offer support,” said Mandy.
SES thank organisations, RSL Phillip Island, Kilcunda Lobster Festival, The Tidal Festival, Grantville Market, Bendigo Bank, Channel Challenge, Walk for The Kids, San Remo Traders Association and Bass Coast Shire Council.
“Thank you for your generosity in providing opportunities and much-needed donations and grants, which allow us to purchase new equipment, put fuel in our vehicles and help with maintenance around the unit. We would struggle without you.”
The Bass Coast Shire Council and the staff have never been too busy to take a call or to be there beside the SES in times of storms, floods and other emergencies.
“Thank you to the businesses, who, through organisations like the Grantville Market and San Remo Traders Association, support us,” Mandy said.
“Finally, I thank the Bass Coast Community. This amazing community gives all the units their incredible members. It is the community that welcomes and thanks us when we turn out for jobs. It is the community that attends all the fantastic events in the Shire and always comes up to us to tell us of their appreciation and admiration for what we do.
“We do not forget CFA, Ambulance Victoria, Victoria Police, Phillip Island Nature Parks and Fisheries and the support they provide to us, but SES San Remo wanted to let the community of Bass Coast know we are grateful for you, and we feel privileged and proud to be SES San Remo. Your support and appreciation are our rewards.”