As students across the state gear up for their Higher School Certificate (HSC) exams, young NSW State Emergency Service (SES) volunteers are proving their dedication knows no bounds, on and off the frontline.
While most are immersed in textbooks and study notes, young SES volunteers are seamlessly blending academic diligence with their commitment to community service.
Among them is NSW SES Hurstville Unit Volunteer Albert Marshall, who has been mastering the art of balance.
“It’s a juggling act between working casually, studying for my HSC, playing sport, and volunteering with the SES," he said.
But it’s not just about managing time. For Mr Marshall, it’s about feeling a sense of purpose and having something to look forward to outside of schooling.
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He dedicates himself to assisting with local emergencies year-round, driven by a desire to serve.
“I enjoy being a source of relief during disaster events. I’ve decided after school I’d like to be a paramedic,” he said.
NSW SES Snowy River Alpine Unit Volunteer Gabriella Forman is a passionate and energetic member of her unit and has made sacrifices to prioritise her studies.
“I’ve had to take a step back from some of my SES activities because I get so excited about everything we do,” she said.
“Helping my community alongside like-minded people who are all ready to lend a hand is incredibly fulfilling.”
Gabriella followed her Mother, Karen Forman, into the orange uniform. Mrs Forman said it was hard to pull her daughter away from the service.
“Gabriella is obsessed with the SES. She does more study for it than her HSC,” she said.
With dreams of a career in emergency medicine, Gabriella is preparing to join ski patrol next year and aims to study paramedicine. Her enthusiasm is matched by her dedication.
“I’ve been immersed in first aid courses since I was old enough, including wilderness first aid and wilderness medicine,” she said.
NSW SES Acting Commissioner Debbie Platz APM praised all young SES volunteers for their exceptional dedication to protecting lives and creating safer communities.
“As these students navigate the challenges of their HSC exams, their commitment to volunteering reflects a remarkable spirit of community service,” Acting Commissioner Platz said.
“The NSW SES is proud to support these young individuals as they balance their education with their desire to make a difference.”
In a world where exams and volunteer work can feel like competing priorities, many students across the state continue to excel in both realms.
