Santa Claus made a quick stop in Corowa on Monday evening to thank the hard working Corowa Rescue Squad and Rutherglen SES volunteers who kept the community safe this year during floods, storms, and other extreme weather events. Pictured left to right is Rob Slot, Mark Nesbitt, Jon Lerpiniere, Santa Claus, Danny Webb, Shaylee Walsh, Nathan Cranston, Luke Doering, Ben Wilson, Toni Harris and Irene Cracknell OAM.
Local emergency service volunteers had a super festive surprise on Monday when Santa pulled up his sleigh at Rowers Park to thank the volunteers for their efforts over the last twelve months.
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Following a year of unpredictable and unsettling weather, largely brought about by the infamous 2022 La Nina weather system, emergency service workers on both sides of the border were kept busy ensuring the community was well prepared and as safe as possible.
Corowa Rescue Squad president Rob Slot said it had been one of the busiest years for the organisation.
“Our volunteers put in a mighty effort this year, particularly from the AFL grand final day onwards, we were working hard through the floods and wet weather,” he said.
“As the river came up and rain continued, we were sandbagging and preparing properties for the worst. Our efforts were largely assisted by the RFS. They supported us with packing sandbags and pumping water off properties. We are so grateful to those guys and cannot thank them enough.
On the nice list! Santa wishing volunteer emergency service workers a Merry Christmas on Monday evening.
“While the water has largely receded, we have kept busy recently being involved in the search and rescue efforts in Mulwala.
“Given the size of our organisation, what we have accomplished this year is a reflection of our hardworking members and the effort they put in.”
Rutherglen SES Unit Controller Irene Cracknell OAM said it had been the busiest year in the 40 years she has been involved with VICSES.
“I cannot remember a year quite like this,” she said.
“We had the flash flood event at the end of January, and it really hasn’t stopped since then.
“Our local CFA crews have also been tremendous all year. We have been so well supported by them. They showed up and often provided a great deal of heavy lifting.”
Rutherglen SES member Toni Harris said SES crews had been called out to everything from removing trees off roads and structures, to flood mitigation, building damage and road rescues.
“For a small unit, we punch well above our weight,” she said.
“I cannot thank our members enough.
“We hope everyone stays safe over the holiday period, takes care on the roads and has wonderful time with their families over Christmas,” both Toni and Irene said.
Santa had some especially warm words for all the volunteers on Monday evening.
“Everyone has been doing a wonderful job this year. You’re all on the nice list,” he said.
“The community is very grateful for your work and devotion. We cannot thank you enough.
“To the community, I want to remind everyone to stay safe and vigilant. Most importantly, I hope you all have a wonderful Christmas!”
