WEDDERBURN’S State Emergency Service unit has reached a rebuilding milestone with specialist training complete in road crash rescues.
The SES says the achievements by both Wedderburn and Wycheproof units are a key operational milestone.
Road crash accreditation restores 
essential emergency response capacity to a critical part of Victoria’s north-west region.
The SES says Wedderburn unit has made considerable progress over the past 12 months, undergoing a phased rebuild that has seen members gain competencies in essential response disciplines including chainsaw operations, safe working at heights and now road crash rescue.
Unit controller Michael George said: “Our Wedderburn unit volunteers are thrilled to have achieved this accreditation and are now able to support our community with road and domestic rescue capabilities. 
“It’s taken seven months of intensive training in rescue operations to reach this milestone, and we couldn’t be prouder of the dedication and teamwork that got us here,” he said.
“But this is just the beginning, we’re always on the lookout for new members to help strengthen our ability to serve our local community long into the future. There are many ways to get involved with VICSES, whether it’s responding to emergencies, supporting community events, or helping behind the scenes to keep the unit running smoothly.”
The SES says Wycheproof unit plays a critical role in providing emergency response coverage along the Calder Highway and throughout the remote Central Mallee region in north-western Victoria, an area encompassing extensive transport routes vital to the state’s agricultural and freight sectors.
In 2023, the unit was required to temporarily suspend its road crash rescue services due to a shortfall in appropriately qualified personnel.
VICSES launched a focused recruitment and training initiative to rebuild capacity. Over the past six months, a dedicated group of local volunteers have undertaken rigorous, weekly training, culminating in their recent accreditation in road crash rescue operations.
“These efforts form part of VICSES’ broader strategy to strengthen regional emergency response services by investing in local volunteer development, ensuring that remote and rural communities are supported by our highly skilled, community-based emergency volunteers,” the SES said.
“While the milestones marks a significant step forward, VICSES continues to seek new volunteers — both operational and administrative — to ensure the long-term sustainability and resilience of the VICSES Wycheproof and Wedderburn Units. 
“Community members who are passionate about public safety, community service, and contributing to a vital emergency service are encouraged to apply.”
Wycheproof unit controller David Mills said: “We continue to rely on the support of our community as we seek new members to join the unit. 
“Additional volunteers will help us respond to calls for assistance, including storm damage and fallen trees, and—most critically—maintain our vital road crash rescue capability,” he said.