Commissioner's Newsletter December 2011

I feel I must reveal that when I sit to write my article for each newsletter, I find it is a time for both reflection and looking forward. For me that is even more appropriate as I contemplate the fast approaching end of another year.

As I do reflect, I feel a great sense of pride, in the recognition of the combined effort of all SES members, as you give so much to keep communities safe.

Talking of pride, I was also very proud during SES Week this November to see so many communities acknowledging the work you do. Many by turning a community icon into a glowing orange beacon. Without covering every event, icons that were turned orange was the Sydney Opera House, the Big Banana at Coffs Harbour, the big Merino at Goulburn, the big gold panner at Bathurst and the submarine at Holbrook.

It was also with great pride that I celebrated in early November my third year as Commissioner of this great organisation. Apart from reflecting on all the operational events that have occurred, my fondest memories are the time I spend travelling the state and meeting so many SES members.

Our membership continues to steadily increase, predominately because we continue to attract new members. One area that I will focus on in 2012 is a range of strategies to improve the retention of members. Please feel free to email me at commissioner@ses.nsw.gov.au if you have any thoughts on this issue.

As we approach the festive season it is a good time for us all to reflect on those people in our lives that are important to us. For me it is my family, my friends, my work colleagues and every member of the NSW SES. Sometimes I have to pinch myself to remind myself how lucky I am to lead an organisation such as this and have the support of so many wonderful people.

Please accept my very best wishes for a very Merry Christmas and a great and prosperous New Year to you and all your family and accept my thank you for your selfless dedication.

I look forward with excitement and anticipation to all that 2012 will hold for us.

Murray Kear AFSMCommissioner

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