In this episode of the Emergency Management Podcast, we interview Deputy Chief Officer David Baker from the Victoria State Emergency Service (VICSES). The VICSES  is the control agency for flood, storm, tsunami earthquake and landslide in Victoria (Australia).

In this episode, we discuss:What do SES volunteers do?The volunteers at VICSES have a range of emergency management responsibilities. Volunteers respond to natural disasters including:

flood,storm,earthquake,tsunami andlandslide.

SES volunteers also provide road rescue services.VICSES also assist the Victoria Police in search and rescue operations.Are all SES volunteers?In 2018 VICSES  had approximately:

3,547 Operational volunteers910 Support Volunteers80 Permanent operational staff120 Permanent support staff

VicSES ValuesIn 2017, VICSES started a process to define its values. VICSES values include:

We pride ourselves on our credibilityWe are part of our communitySafety drives our decisionsFocused and adaptableTogether we are VICSES

VICSES Operational Capability StrategyThe aim of the Operational Capability Strategy is to explain both the rationale and the underpinning principles for the development and maintenance of operational capability of VICSES. Emergency Services Infrastructure AuthorityThe aim of the Emergency Services Infrastructure Authority (ESIA) is to improve the delivery of emergency services infrastructure in Victoria. Currently, ESIA is delivering infrastructure for the Victoria State Emergency Service (VICSES), and Life Saving Victoria (LSV) built infrastructure projects and Marine Search and Rescue (MSAR) sector vessels.We work as oneThe ethos of "We work as one" is a shared goal identified by Emergency Management Victoria. "We work as one" places a priority on both government and agencies working together cooperatively to enable a flexible and networked response that supports the community.The best piece of adviceMark Crosweller, AFSM - "‘imagine the unimaginable’ and act accordingly" - Improving our capability to better plan for, respond to, and recover from severe-to-catastrophic level disasters by Mark CroswellerRichard de Crespigny (Captain of QF32) - At the beginning of the Singapore/Sydney leg of flight QF32, one of four engines exploded. The damage to the aircraft was extensive.

 What is the SES phone number in Victoria?For emergencies how do you call SES?In Victoria, you can call 132 500 for flood, storm, tsunami and earthquake emergency.For life-threatening emergencies call Triple Zero (000).Victoria Head Office168 Sturt StreetSouthbank, Victoria 3006Phone: (03) 9256 9000International: +613 9256 9000Ask questions or share your feedback

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