FOR 50 years, Shepparton Search and Rescue Squad has been protecting the community and providing specialised search and rescue services to the wider Shepparton region. On Saturday, current and past members, emergency service representatives and local dignitaries came together to celebrate the organisation, its impact and its history.
“It was a very good evening, everyone enjoyed the celebrations,” said SSARS president, Nacole Standfield.
“We paid tribute to our founding member Ed Jezewski, who sadly passed away prior to the event, and celebrated all past and present members, their hard work and dedication for over 50 years.”
Jason Kittlety was awarded the 10-year Service Award. Mr Kittlety has volunteered with SSARS for 10 years but prior was a long-term member of the CFA, which he has a national medal for his 35-year-strong contribution to emergency services.
Carl Zabilowicz was awarded the Jezewski Family – Member of the Year Award, named after the founding brothers of SSARS and awarded by their family members who attended on the night.
The 170 guests in attendance also heard from founding member Frank Gaylard, who talked of the organisation’s history, local MPs Suzanna Sheed and Wendy Lovell, and guest speaker, Chrystal Rexter – who spoke about her lived experience being rescued by SSARS at a critical time at Greens Lake.
SSARS is a non-profit, charitable organisation run by volunteers for the Greater Shepparton community. Potential volunteers are invited to come along on a Monday evening at 7.30pm to 15 Dudley Street, Shepparton, where they meet for training and social activities.
For more information, contact admin@sheppartonrescue.com.au or visit www.sheppartonrescue.com.au
