THE new head of the NSW State Emergency Service says members from all regions need to work together to tackle their common challenges.
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SES Commissioner Brigadier Mark Smethurst introduced himself to Albury volunteers during a visit to the Murray region this week.
He began his job five weeks ago after 35 years in the Australian Defence Force and nominated three main priorities – recruitment and retention, training and operational capability.
“We’re here to support the community and if we can’t respond effectively, then we’re not doing our job,” Commissioner Smethurst said.
Murray region controller Bernard Kates said he also worked closely with SES colleagues in Victoria, for example three Albury crews helped with Wodonga’s storm clean-up on Monday.
“We need to make sure that we’re both saying the same thing; the community hears a message from the SES, they don’t ask which one,” Mr Kates said.
- For SES, ring 132 500
