The Hills SES Local Controller – Awarded Volunteer of The Year

Volunteers from across the Sydney region were recently recognised for their contribution to volunteering in NSW at a ceremony in Parramatta. The NSW Volunteer of the Year Awards is an annual event run by The Centre for Volunteering.

This year, Evelyn Lester, Local Controller from NSW SES The Hills Unit was awarded 2018 NSW Adult Volunteer of the Year for the region.

Evelyn has dedicated much of the past 15 years of her life supporting the local community during emergencies and times of need. She was selected as the NSW Adult Volunteer of the Year for the region for her role as Local SES Controller, and particularly her tireless work to grow and develop the membership and skills base of the unit.

Evelyn is also a former Hills Shire Council Citizen of the Year and was awarded the Emergency Services Medal (ESM) on Australia Day. Evelyn’s contribution to the local, and wider community has been invaluable, helping them to become more resilient and prepared in times of crisis and emergencies.

The Hills Unit has grown from 40 to over 150 members under Evelyn’s leadership, providing increased capability to respond to flood, storm and support requests across The Hills Shire Council area, across NSW and even further afield to Queensland, Victoria and Western Australia.

For more information about NSW SES, or to find out about volunteering, visit: www.ses.nsw.gov.au