Article Summary
Josh Hurst, a young SES volunteer, set aside his personal milestone to help with the flood emergency in Taree, 4½ hours north. Despite the challenging weather conditions, he drove through the night to deliver a specially equipped SES van and assist with evacuations. Hurst, who spends 20 to 40 hours a week on SES work and has risen to become a deputy unit commander at Wollongong, exemplifies the spirit of selflessness and dedication in the face of natural disasters.
What This Means for You
- Recognize the importance of community service: Even during personal milestones, individuals like Josh Hurst prioritize helping others, demonstrating the value of community service and selflessness.
- Prepare for extreme weather situations: Extreme weather events can occur with little warning. Ensure that you and your family have emergency plans and supplies in place to stay safe and informed.
- Appreciate the efforts of emergency services personnel: Josh Hurst’s story highlights the dedication and hard work of SES volunteers and other emergency services personnel who risk their own safety to help others during times of crisis.
- Stay updated on local weather conditions: Continuously monitor weather reports and heed evacuation orders to protect yourself and your loved ones from the dangers of natural disasters.
NSW SES Volunteer Sacrifices Award Ceremony to Help with Taree Flood Emergency
Josh Hurst, a 23-year-old SES volunteer, left his clean uniform and the NSW SES Young Volunteer of the Year award ceremony to help with the flood emergency in Taree, 4½ hours north. After receiving a 3.30am request from a superior, Hurst delivered a specially equipped SES van to Taree and assisted in evacuations through the challenging weather conditions.
Young SES volunteer Josh Hurst on the scene in Taree.Credit:
Hurst, who spends 20 to 40 hours a week on SES work, has risen to become a deputy unit commander at Wollongong. He received several awards for courageous actions during the floods at Eugowra in the state’s central west last year.
After returning from Taree, Hurst spent Thursday and Friday helping his regular unit deal with local fallout from the coastal trough as it moved south. He admits to being a “bit bummed” about missing the award ceremony but hopes there will be another chance to shake hands with his commissioner and Emergency Services Minister.
“For me, operations come first,” he said.
People Also Ask
- What should I do in case of a flood emergency?
- How can I help my local SES unit during natural disasters?
- What are the responsibilities of SES volunteers?
- What qualifications are necessary to become an SES volunteer?
- What are some notable stories of SES volunteers during flood emergencies?
Expert Opinion
Josh Hurst’s unwavering dedication to the community reflects the essential role of SES volunteers during natural disasters. With a focus on operations and selflessness, Hurst exemplifies the significance of SES volunteers’ contributions to public safety and resilience—he embodies the spirit of service that communities rely on in challenging times.
Key Terms
- SES (State Emergency Service)
- Flood Emergency
- Volunteerism
- Community Service
- NSW SES Young Volunteer of the Year
- Emergency Operations
- Natural Disasters
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