NSW SES Newsletters
Commissioner's Newsletter September 2011
The 1st October marks the beginning of the storm season in New South Wales, and the Bureau of Meteorology is forecasting a “normal” storm season for the State. This is following two years of well above average rainfall, coupled with severe storms and flooding. In fact, September 2010 was labeled as the wettest September on record, while the calendar year 2010 ranked as Australia’s second wettest year on record.
As we all now prepare for the oncoming “normal” season, we know that a normal season in New South Wales will mean dozens of storm events, probable flash and riverine flooding, all of which will require SES members to respond when called upon.
At the recent formal launch of StormSafe Week, I spoke to numerous media outlets on the benefits of people taking the time now, while the sun is shining, to prepare themselves and their properties for the weather events that will occur over the next few months. As members of the SES and members of communities across the State, I ask you also to consider what preparations can be made within your community and your units to ensure that as an organisation, we are ready for whatever Mother Nature will serve up.
The launch of StormSafe Week by The Hon Michael Gallacher MLC together with our principal partners, NRMA Insurance, is also an opportunity to reflect on the services we deliver. As members of any emergency service, you can be called upon to work in environments that can be threatening; and as such I ask you to also ensure that your primary focus over the storm season and at all times, is on your own wellbeing.
Our partnership with NRMA Insurance, by linking two iconic brands, NRMA and SES, creates greater brand profile for us, alongside increased opportunities to communicate our safety messages. I know that events celebrating this partnership have already occurred across the State, and I thank you for giving up your time and supporting.
As this edition of my Newsletter goes to print, governments and agencies are reflecting on the floods that occurred in Queensland, Victoria and our own State. These formal inquiries and reviews also allow us to review our services and readiness, and I am personally working with other agencies in ensuring we are well prepared should events that we have witnessed in 2010 occur again in our communities.
Finally, I want to thank all those members of units whom I have visited since the last Newsletter. I never cease to be inspired by your professionalism and dedication. I also greatly appreciate the open discussions we have on making the One SES the best organisation it can be.
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