Last week I returned from the wonderful conference/training programme for the State Emergency Services, Chaplains and Peer Support Volunteers. It has been a privilege to work with this group, who give their time and skills freely and respond with enormous generosity, when called up to assist in disasters such as the flooding in Queensland and the terrible bush-fires in Victoria.
The stories of their service to the people in need have been heart-warming and very self-less. During these few days I have learned much about trauma incident and disaster response. The training of this group is very thorough and conducted by highly trained and skilled people, to name a few: Monica Kleinman, clinical Director, Craig Willmot Disaster and Trauma Specialist, Bob Smith, Chaplaincy-training and of course Gina Mammone, who is the co-ordinator of the training and the glue who keeps all this together and running smoothly.
And then all of the participants, who each had their own stories and experiences.
A heartfelt thanks to all of you for welcoming me with open arms and letting me be part of your community for a little while.