The civic centre lights were orange-tinged for the night and the SES members were dressed in their regulation orange as they encouraged the public to come and talk about storm safety.

Although the week was all about staying safe and preparing you home in case of storms, the SES was also on the lookout for new recruits.

Angie Batey joined the unit 17 years ago and has been the unit controller for the past four years.

She encouraged anyone over the age of 18 who was available for training on a Wednesday night to give it a go.

The SES offers plenty of different tasks for its volunteers from logistics to field work with nationally recognised accreditations. 

“Just getting out and helping people and working with a fantastic crew makes it worth it,” Angie said.

“All you have to be is able and interested in giving back to the community, able to work in a team and willing to learn new things.”

One member who embraced the SES later in life is Robin Cantrill.

After retiring as Ulladulla High School principal in 1991, Robin wanted to continue to help the community.

Now 81, he has been a member for 18 years. 

“Whatever you do in the community with the SES is greatly recognised because the community really values what you do,” he said.

“I have been in the SES for 18 years and have never heard an argument. 

“Everyone gets along and the camaraderie is really good.

“We all have differences in education and what we do, but it makes no difference as everyone brings different skills.

“I am really getting a second lease on life with the SES, in my book.”

For more information come and see the team at the SES unit in Camden Street, Ulladulla, at 6.30pm on Wednesday, September 17.