Local VRA volunteers are always up to date with their training, equipment and education.
As we enter a new year, the Deniliquin Rescue Squad - VRA Rescue NSW is reflecting on a busy 2024 in which it marked its 50th year of operation.
Hold tight - we’re checking permissions before loading more content
While the anniversary did not change the role of the organisation - to continue its vital role in community safety and education - it was an extra source of pride for its members.
NSW Volunteer Rescue Squad is an organisation which provides emergency services across the state.
Its volunteer members focus on community safety and are committed to effective emergency management and response.
At present, the NSW VRA has over 50 locations across the state.
Deniliquin’s branch was founded in May 1974.
It was just six years after the NSW VRA was only officially formed in 1969, by smaller organisations from Wagga Wagga, Dubbo, Albury and Narrandera, to aid police around the state with emergency rescue and recovery efforts.
Deniliquin’s unit was formed in response to a tragic drowning.
It inspired local volunteers to ensure that future emergencies would be met with properly equipped and trained responders.
Deniliquin Rescue Squad - VRA Rescue NSW and other emergency services provide vital education through the Driver Education Training mock crash each year.
What has continued since is a long-standing relationship the local unit has had with the community, police and other emergency agencies.
Deniliquin Rescue Squad - VRA Rescue NSW president Wes Follett said the relationship with police was particularly important, with half of Deniliquin VRA’s call-outs coming from the NSW Police Force.
Mr Follett, a dedicated member of the brigade for nearly 35 years, reflects on the milestone.
He said he is extremely proud of the group, their operations, education, equipment and support of the community.
“There are only half a dozen of us volunteers here in the squad; there are plenty of brigades with more volunteers.
“Our building and the gear we use is second to none, though, and the funds from the local community donations allow that.
“We really pride ourselves on our gear and training, which we do ourselves through practical training, like cutting open cars to free occupants.
“We have been in our current building since 1982.
“Before that we were in a building to the rear of the water resources building, and before that was in a shed at the local pool.”
David Donald, Richard Wheatland and Wes Follett representing the local brigade at the 2024 Deniliquin Truck Show.
One of the squad’s main functions is road crash resuces, covering a large area throughout the Riverina and further.
They also promote the squad to the community by attending events, including at the Deni Ute Muster, the Deni Truck Show and smaller community events.
Deniliquin Rescue Squad - VRA Rescue NSW also actively aids in community education, and plays a major role in the now annual Deniliquin High School Driver Education Program, including the mock crash exercise.
As one of the leading volunteer organisations in the country, VRA NSW is committed to community safety and support, emergency management and response in the region.
For more information on how you could become a volunteer, go to www.rescue.org.au or speak to one of the local squad members.
Deniliquin Rescue Squad - VRA Rescue NSW member Chris Holloway, Ben Pinhorn, Jye Stubbs and VRA regional manager Paul Marshall during the jaws of life demonstration at the 2024 Deni Ute Muster.
40°C