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    UPGRADE: Horsham SES members Robyn Lowe, Wayne Ballinger and Josh Hodges with Horsham police officers, senior constable Glenn Burridge, left, and first constable Sam Salisbury inspect new life-saving equipment. Picture: PAUL CARRACHER
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    Horsham SES members with Horsham police officers and CFA representatives at a Wear Orange Wednesday morning tea.

New tools cut time for SES

Victoria State Emergency Service is upgrading its rescue tools across the state, with Ararat, Stawell and Horsham units the latest to receive battery-operated cutters, spreaders and combi-tools.

VICSES Wimmera unit support team community resilience co-ordinator Jordan Bush said the Holmatro Pentheon tools brought many benefits for SES volunteers during rescues.

“The tools are a significant capability upgrade,” he said.

“Often when we attend car accidents, they are off the road or in inaccessible places. These tools mean we can get to the cars faster, and the tools are more efficient, safer, and better for the job.”



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Traditional rescue tools relied on hydraulic hoses, limiting rescue proximity, and adding logistic considerations. 

VICSES is the largest rescue provider in Australia, often working alongside other first responders such as firefighters, paramedics and police.

Horsham police Senior Sergeant Brendan Broadbent said VICSES played a necessary role in supporting police operations.

“They assist us in managing road fatalities, serious injury collisions, rescues, lost bushwalkers, and even man the driver reviver stands over long weekends at various locations,” he said.

“I admire VICSES volunteers greatly for their support – I’ve never met one that hasn’t been willing to jump in and get the job done.” 

VICSES welcomes new members at all its units – people can contact their local unit via a message on Facebook, or visit www.ses.vic.gov.au and click on the ‘join us’ tab. 

– Bronwyn Hastings

The entire June 5, 2024 edition of The Weekly Advertiser is available online. READ IT HERE!