Member since 2021
I first heard about VRA Rescue NSW through friends, that were existing members and I saw a need that I could fill and contribute further to my community.
I was almost born into volunteering and community service through Scouting, where from a young age I developed practical skills in pioneering, knotting, mapping and navigation, boating and aviation, along with teamwork, leadership and problem-solving. Looking back, many of those skills are the same ones that are used across the emergency services today.
I first joined the NSW Rural Fire Service more than 20 years ago and eventually transitioned into dual membership with both the RFS and VRA Rescue NSW.
For me, it has always been about teamwork, community and mateship, while being able to lend a hand when somebody needs it.
One of the things I enjoy most about VRA is that it gives me the opportunity to continue using skills I have developed throughout my life, while also learning new ones and passing that knowledge on to others.
Outside of volunteering, I work in local government compliance, dealing with everything from companion animals and livestock to a wide range of community compliance matters. I regularly work with animals both large and small, and a lot of those experiences go hand-in-hand with the practical thinking, communication and problem-solving required in emergency services.
For me, volunteering isn’t just about responding to an incident. It’s about being part of a team, supporting your community, sharing knowledge and continuing to develop skills that can make a difference when they’re needed most.
Meet other members like Shannon by joining your local VRA Rescue NSW squad.