General News
22 November, 2025
Stawell SES notches up 60 years
STAWELL’s State Emergency Service branch hosted an afternoon tea at its Sloane Street headquarters on Saturday to celebrate six decades of service to the community. The event saw former SES members reunite with colleagues and connect with members of other organisations from around the area who all play a part managing emergency situations in the community.
Stawell SES life member Graham Edwards was thrilled to see a great turnout for the event, as he wasn’t quite sure a lot would show up.
“Yes I was surprised, said Mr Edwards, “It’s good to see former police officers, and ambulance officers here, as well as our neighbouring SES from Ararat, it’s great to see them.”
“We’re part of one big team when we go to rescues.”
SES members proudly displayed much of their newest equipment alongside gear from previous generations that have been maintained as historical keepsakes.
“As for the equipment that’s out and about, a lot of it is old and I’m glad we’re not using it any more, the modern stuff is a long way better,” Mr Edwards said.
Active SES volunteer Megan Raeburn enjoyed the chance to mark the big occasion.
“September the 6th was our sixty years, so we thought we should celebrate this milestone,” said Ms Raeburn.
“Today we’ve had a few ex-members come along and community leaders, like our Mayor, it’s been really nice to see them here.
“We work closely together when the community needs us, and it’s lovely for them to come along and enjoy the day with us.”
Ms Rayburn expects SES crews to be busy helping holidaymakers in The Grampians National Park this summer when the odd hiker gets themselves into strife, and hopes that people will be vigilant on the roads when travelling to the area.
“Now that the Grampians is starting to open up again after the bushfires, I think the public will start coming back to enjoy what we have around the region, so we will be busy,” she said.
“When people are coming up this way, we want them to make sure they travel safely, abide by the road rules and keep everyone safe.”
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