Businesses lauded for vollie support

Businesses supporting emergency services volunteers were recognised for their efforts at the Volunteer Employer Recognition Awards on November 2.

Many winners were acknowledged in the gold category, with support ranging from paid time off to attend incidents and training, and the donation of equipment and expertise.

YouthCARE Great Southern, which provides chaplain services to local schools, received a gold award for supporting several of its employees who volunteer with the Kalgan Volunteer Bushfire Brigade.

Albany Regional Prison and T&C Supplies also won a gold award and WA Country Health Service — Albany Health Campus won silver.

Emergency Services Minister Fran Logan said businesses that employed emergency services volunteers, or those who were self-employed, allowed fast responses to a wide range of emergency situations.

“Considering that 99 per cent of emergency services personnel in the country are volunteers, it’s essential we have supportive businesses who allow their employees to take time off work to attend incidents, training and community events,” he said.

“On behalf of the WA comm-unity, congratulations to the 76 employers and 26 self-employed volunteer award winners, and thank you for your support that helps keep WA safe.”