We have an emergency, says SES

By Shaun Inguanzo
SPRINGVALE’S State Emergency Service (SES) says dwindling volunteer numbers placed a strain on its resources this week as wild weather conditions brought trees crashing down in Greater Dandenong and across Victoria.
The unit responded to three jobs within five hours to clear fallen trees in Greater Dandenong on Tuesday, and also helped the Moorabbin SES with similar callouts.
Springvale SES volunteer Lisa Pountney said windy and wet conditions were the cause.
Ms Pountney said the wild weather conditions had placed a heavy strain on the Springvale unit, which is suffering from a continual decline in volunteer numbers.
The unit currently has 15 members, all of whom must find time to work for a living as well as volunteer for the SES.
Ms Pountney said at least three SES members were required at each job, but the resources strain at the Springvale unit meant that only two were attending some jobs.
She urged people to join the Springvale SES to bolster its numbers. “We are asking anyone who would like to assist to come aboard,” Ms Pountney said. “They will have to do training first, and that happens over 12 weeks.”
People wishing to volunteer or learn more about Springvale’s SES should phone 9558 5811.