NSW SES Shellharbour City Unit

A huge congratulations to Ian, who has recently turned 18 and is currently completing his HSC, an exciting and demanding time, and he’s absolutely smashing it!

Ian first joined the NSW SES Shellharbour City Unit through the 10 week Youth Internship Program in 2024. It didn’t take long to sign on as a full member at just 16 years old.

Recently, Ian achieved something truly outstanding, successfully passing the highly challenging Flood Rescue Operator training. This is no small accomplishment.

As a Flood Rescue Operator, Ian is now trained to assist during flood emergencies. These roles often involve helping evacuate isolated residents, rescuing people and animals from dangerous floodwaters, operating specialist equipment, and rescuing motorists trapped in flooded vehicles. It’s demanding, high-risk work that requires fitness, skill, teamwork, and courage.

And as if that wasn’t enough, Ian is also serving as a Cadet Under Officer with the Air Force Cadets, showing his dedication to service.

👏 Well done, Ian! You’re an absolute legend and an inspiring example of what young people can achieve.

Want to join the NSW SES?
https://www.ses.nsw.gov.au/volunteer

𝐑𝐞𝐜𝐫𝐮𝐢𝐭𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐎𝐩𝐞𝐧 𝐃𝐚𝐲

🗓️ Saturday 20th June
⏰ 10am - 12pm

Have you ever wanted to make a real difference in your community?

Apply online & come along to our Recruitment Open Day and meet the incredible volunteers of NSW SES Shellharbour City Unit

Learn about the many roles our members perform before, during and after emergencies.

From storm damage 🏡 and fallen trees, to flood rescue, incident management and community education — there’s a role for everyone aged 16+.

No experience needed, all training is provided. You just need the passion and commitment to help your community when it matters most.

Apply or learn more:
https://www.ses.nsw.gov.au/volunteer

Today we celebrate our incredible NSW SES volunteers, and all SES volunteers across the country 🧡

Drop a photo or comment to show your appreciation to the dedicated volunteers!!

We are deeply saddened by the tragic incident off Ballina overnight. This sort of incident is a reminder of what the 000 Community often face every time they answer a call for help, frequently in the most challenging and dangerous conditions.

We extend our sincere condolences to the families, friends, and fellow members of Marine Rescue NSW, as well as all those affected by this tragedy.
Our thoughts are with you all during this difficult time.💙💙

Last night was the darkest night ever experienced by Marine Rescue NSW.

Marine Rescue NSW volunteers answer the call for help 24/7 and last night six members from Marine Rescue Ballina did just that. They launched with a single mission, to save lives on the water and assist a yacht, reported to be in difficulty off the South Ballina break wall.

Tragically, two of our volunteers lost their lives during the response.

Marine Rescue NSW Commissioner Todd Andrews said the devastating loss is a solemn reminder of the risks faced by volunteers who serve their communities.

“These two men were serving their local community and have made the ultimate sacrifice to help others.

“Our thoughts and deepest condolences are with the families and loved ones of the deceased, their fellow crew members, the brave radio operators who handled the difficult communications during the incident, the entire Marine Rescue NSW family and the wider Ballina community during this incredibly difficult time.

“We are supporting our volunteers and their families through professional counselling and chaplaincy support.

“We ask that the privacy of those involved and their families be respected during this difficult time,” Commissioner Andrews said.

Congratulations Leila 🙌🏼

2026 Youth Internship returns to NSW SES Shellharbour City Unit in Term 3.

If you have a 15/16 year old teen attending one of the Shellharbour LGA high schools, speak to the careers advisor on how to apply.

During a recent routine driving lesson, 16-year-old Leila Thew spotted a light plane making an emergency landing in a nearby paddock ✈️

Leila’s instructor immediately contacted triple zero, but it was difficult to describe the exact location of the crash.

Leila is a new graduate of the NSW SES Youth Internship Program and using her knowledge gained from her time in the program, she was quick to assist where she could.

“I remembered what I had learnt . . . and logged into the What3Words app to give the operator a three-word address for the incident,” Leila said.

“Emergency services were then able to pinpoint the site of the emergency and respond.”

Leila’s quick thinking is a testament that practical training can equip young people with the skills that matter when it counts most!

We're proud to spotlight Leila this Youth Week and congratulate her on her quick thinking and determination to help her community 👏