Sarina SES Prepared For Storm Season

With such a large area for the SES to look after, the Mackay unit is divided into three key areas, with the teams from each area often working together on jobs.

Rebekka Murray is the Deputy Local Controller South, managing the southern part of the Mackay Unit, including Sarina, Sarina Beach, Campwin Beach, Koumala and surrounds.

“We work together as a unit quite often,” said Rebekka.

“The more people we can get to assist in any activation, the better it is.

“More hands make light work.

Rebekka, a teacher-aide by day, has been in the role for the last five years, joining the SES back in 2014 after her husband joined the year before.

“Watching him being able to help the community inspired my drive to want to do the same,” said Rebekka.

“Even being able to do something simple to help someone in their time of need is very rewarding in itself.”

Rebekka says it’s her compassion that assists her most in her role with the SES.

“You drive past somewhere and you think, ‘I’ve helped that person, I’ve helped patch that house in their time of need,’” she said.

“It’s just the fact that you get to help and give back to your local community and know that they’ve got someone there when they need it.”

Her leadership role with the SES allows her to care for her community and her fellow volunteers while forever growing her knowledge and skills.

“I learnt from a good few people before me and am also constantly learning now, even though I’ve been in my role for nearly six years,” she said.

“There is never a time where you don’t learn something new, which is something I enjoy.

“We have a lot of experienced members and leaders throughout our unit. I wouldn’t be able to do what I do without their support and knowledge.”

The SES has equipped Rebekka with invaluable life, people and practical skills.

“Operating a chainsaw, driving a flood boat, tarping roofs, but also how to be a better teacher and leader,” she said.

“Within the SES, the possibilities for learning are endless and you can take it as far as you desire.”

Rebekka says Cyclone Debbie was her most memorable activation; witnessing the damage a cyclone can produce has always stuck with her and being able to help those who were affected is one of her prouder moments.

Leading a team of 12 volunteers, Rebekkah is passionate about sharing skills and knowledge with her colleagues, as her leaders have done before her.

Her team has responded to a few callouts from the storms that have already rolled through so far this disaster season and she urges the community to be prepared.

“It’s been fairly reasonable so far this storm season, but we’re expecting more to come,” she said.

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Rebekka’s Disaster Tips

- Make sure all your gutters are cleaned.

- Keep your yard tidy from flying debris as we know storms are unpredictable.

- Make sure you have your household kit in place (radio, torch, batteries, water and non-perishable items).

- If it’s flooded, forget it.

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Deputy Local Controller South Rebekka Murray loves serving her community. Photo supplied