Call-out for SES

20/7/18 North Photography Issue 24/8 SES Deputy Controller Nicolas Gagalakos and Robert Trott on left of the SES Melton Unit Pic Marco De Luca

By Sumeyya Ilanbey

Nicolas Gargalakos “gets a kick” out of helping Melton residents as a local State Emergency Services member.

He joined the SES 10 years ago to give back to his community and stayed.

“[I enjoy] the way we come together as a team and are able to help the community at large,”
Mr Gargalakos said.

“It’s quite rewarding – it’s a volunteer service, but we get a kick out of helping people.”

Mr Gargalakos is hoping other Melton residents will join him.

Melton SES will open its doors to the public on Friday, providing opportunities for people to ask questions about the SES and equipment – and maybe even sign up as volunteers.

Ten people joined as volunteers at last year’s open day and Mr Gargalakos is hoping for similar numbers this year.

“Melton is growing quite substantially,”
he said. “We need more members to be able to cater for the new houses and population.”

The SES responds to storm damage and search and rescues, and assists other emergency services, such as police and firefighters.

The open day, on Saturday, July 28 will run from 9am-2pm at the Melton SES, 90-92 High Street.

Details: 0418 526 573