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SES members Kim Ferguson from Tumbarumba, Veronica Vartolo from Wollongong and James Logan from Sydney were deployed to the United States, while Graeme Craig from Newcastle supported operations in Canada.
Deployed through the National Resource Sharing Centre (NRSC), which was coordinated by the NSW Rural Fire Service, SES members performed specialist Incident Management Team roles, with Kim serving as a Facilities Officer, Veronica and Graeme as Finance Officers, and James as a Supply Officer.
NSW SES Commissioner Mike Wassing ASFM said the deployments highlighted the expertise of NSW SES members and the importance of international collaboration during major emergencies.
“Emergencies don’t stop at borders, and neither does the willingness of emergency services to help each other when support is needed,” Commissioner Wassing said.
“Our members have proudly represented NSW SES and Australia, providing valuable support to our international partners while gaining experience that can be brought home to strengthen emergency management in NSW.
“International deployments are a great example of emergency services working together and sharing skills, resources and experience when communities need support.”
Commissioner Wassing thanked the four members for their commitment.
“These deployments require significant commitment from our members and their families. I thank Kim, Veronica, James and Graeme for their service and dedication and welcome them safely home,” Commissioner Wassing said.
The deployments, which began in August, provided the members with valuable experience supporting large-scale emergency operations overseas. Their contribution reflects the NSW SES's commitment to supporting emergency service partners during times of need.
Media enquiries: NSW SES Media on 1800 067 234 or media@ses.nsw.gov.au.