VICSES Pakenham, one of the largest road crash rescue units in Victoria, is calling on local drivers to exercise increased caution on the roads as the festive season approaches.
The unit has seen a significant surge in road crash incidents over the past month, with emergency calls coming in almost daily, keeping first responders on high alert to meet the rising demand for assistance.
The total number of road crash rescue incidents attended by VICSES Pakenham is already over 40 percent higher than the total for 2023, with 23 incidents in October alone, prompting concerns for road safety as the busy holiday season draws near.
“Driver distraction, speed, fatigue and simple mistakes can make all the difference between arriving at your destination safely or needing to be cut out of your vehicle by our SES first responders,” said Road Crash
Rescue veteran Steve Monro.
“While we’re always here to help the community, prevention is always the best option.
“We urge all drivers to stay focused, follow road safety rules, and avoid distractions this festive season.”
As a volunteer-based organisation, VICSES Pakenham operates 24/7, 365 days a year, providing emergency assistance to reduce the impact of emergencies and help communities respond and recover.
With 104 accredited road crash rescue units and 22 support units across Victoria, VICSES is proud to operate the largest road rescue network in Australia.
When attending a road crash, VICSES is responsible for undertaking initial scene safety, vehicle stabilisation, and extricating people from crashed vehicles.
The VICSES Road Crash units undertake extensive training in advanced extrication techniques, using specialised equipment, to ensure they are always ready to keep the community safe.
While VICSES Pakenham is committed to responding to emergencies, the unit also faces the challenge of fundraising to support its ongoing operations and to replace one of their critical rescue trucks.
Rachel Violi, VICSES Pakenham’s Network & Partnership Manager, highlighted the significant financial pressures faced by volunteer units.
“Many people don’t realise that VICSES units across the state are largely self-funded,” said Violi.
“The State Government provides limited funding, primarily covering fuel costs. All other expenses – from equipment maintenance and replacement to insurance and registration – must be funded through community donations and volunteer efforts.”
Currently, VICSES Pakenham is raising $150,000 to replace its critical medium general rescue truck, which has been in service for 15 years. This truck plays a vital role in responding to incidents involving storms,
floods, and building rescues, and will be decommissioned in 2025.
“Replacing this vehicle is essential to maintaining our ability to serve the community, and we need the public’s support to make this happen,” added Violi.
If you’re interested in becoming a SES volunteer, with the opportunity to give back to the community while learning new skills ranging from first aid, general rescue, chainsaw operations, community education, and
much more, register your interest at: Pakenham@ses.vic.gov.au
To donate and support VICSES Pakenham’s fundraising efforts, visit their secure Give Now fundraising page: givenow.com.au/vicses_pakenham
