Three dedicated volunteers from the Pakenham unit of the Victoria State Emergency Service (VICSES) have been awarded Unit Life Membership, acknowledging their decades of commitment to emergency response and community safety. The honorees, Bruce Monro, Chris Rogers, and Michael Bates, have each demonstrated exceptional service, exceeding the criteria set for this prestigious recognition.
The combined experience of these three men totals over a century, covering significant emergencies such as fires, floods, storms, and road crash rescues. Their efforts have greatly enhanced the capabilities of the Pakenham unit and contributed to the safety of the surrounding communities.
Bruce Monro has been with the Pakenham VICSES since 1981, amassing more than 40 years of continuous service. His commitment has seen him respond to major events like Ash Wednesday in 1983 and Black Saturday in 2009. Beyond his operational role, Mr. Monro served as a Peer Support Officer, assisting and mentoring fellow volunteers. At 80 years old, he has recently reduced his active responsibilities, but his dedication was previously acknowledged through a nomination for the Cardinia Shire Senior Citizen of the Year award.
Joining the Pakenham unit in 1984, Chris Rogers has also contributed over 40 years of volunteer service. He has developed extensive expertise in road crash rescues and emergency incidents, including severe storms and floods. Mr. Rogers has played a vital role in training within the unit, particularly focusing on road crash rescue procedures. His commitment to training persisted even during the challenges of the pandemic. In recognition of his community contributions, he was named the Cardinia Shire Citizen of the Year in 2021.
Since 2004, Michael Bates has provided more than 20 years of service to the Pakenham unit, following prior volunteer experience in the military. He has held several leadership positions, including Deputy Controller and Operations Officer. Mr. Bates’s extensive operational background encompasses a variety of emergencies, including road rescues, water rescues, and responses to storms and floods. His leadership and mentoring have been instrumental in enhancing the unit’s capabilities.
Unit Life Membership is granted to those who have shown long-term dedication, significant contributions to their unit and community, and a record of service free from disciplinary action. Awardees remain formally recognized by their unit and are invited to significant events in the future.
The Pakenham SES actively welcomes new volunteers, encouraging anyone interested in contributing to community safety to consider joining. Volunteers are essential to emergency response efforts, training programs, and building resilience within the region.
