SES operations a family affair
AFTER years of seeing her husband disappear into the night, Ros Newley decided it was time to get in on the action.
She said her husband John (now local SES controller) has been a volunteer with the SES since 1977 and after years of feeling isolated when he was on jobs, she and a bunch of volunteer wives signed up.
"We did it so we could be there to back them up," Mrs Newley said.
That was in 1994, and Mrs Newley hasn't looked back.
"I don't do the physical work. Administration is my primary job and when there is activation, I do the communication," she said.
Mr Newley said it was great to have the support of his wife.
"After a big day or late night she has been able to take phones calls, while I sleep because she understands the system," he said.
"I think you have that person you can download to at home."
The couple agreed the friendships they had made and the skills they picked up with the SES had been worth every minute.
Mr Newley said the SES would hold its annual recruitment drive at the end of the month.
"The skills you pick up, like first aid and reading maps, translate to everyday life as well," he said.
Find out more at the SES sheds behind the Criterion Hotel, 7.30pm January 31 or call 46611906.
