Over a two day period the SES volunteers assisted the police by conducting an exhaustive land search at Cape Hawke. The SES volunteers were wearing the new light weight vests which are well equipped with survival equipment.

“These vests are much cooler and more comfortable for the searcher to wear instead of the heavy back packs they have used in the past,” said deputy controller Lyn Adams.

The utility vests were recently purchased by Wingham SES after successfully obtaining a club grant from Wingham Memorial Services Club as part of the Community Development Support Expenditure Scheme.

Though small the vests contain much needed supplies for the SES volunteers such as spare water, compasses, note paper and pencils, a whistle to attract attention, first aid kits, dehydrated food supplies and more. Volunteers are now well equipped to administer first aid until professional help arrives and also sustain them personally if they get caught overnight in the bush.

On March 31 Wingham SES hosted a supper for the directors of the Wingham Memorial Services Club in appreciation for help with funding for the vital equipment. Directors present on the night were Ken Malpas (president), Colin Motbey and Nigel Dick.

"The volunteers of Wingham SES wish to thank the directors of Wingham Memorial Services Club for their continued support," said Lyn.