Junee, Riverina VRA squads in need of more community support

Junee VRA treasurer Frank Annetts said in recent years volunteer emergency services have been struggling to get younger people to jump on board.

"We're looking to recruit more volunteers and we are looking to recruit younger people in particular," he said.

"If we could get another four or five people on board, that would be wonderful."

Without fresh members looking to stay long-term the future of emergency services such as the VRA could be seen as concerning.

"It's pretty crucial that we get new people on board," Mr Annetts said.

"We just can't encourage people to get out there and give us a hand.

IN OTHER NEWS:

"If you can't man a squad it will have to diminish. We're not in that position at the moment, but we just want to get some extra bodies whilst we can."

Mr Annetts said it isn't a state problem, nor a country-wide problem, but a problem volunteer emergency services are facing worldwide.

"It's an ongoing thing, you get people to join and then they leave because they move town," he said.

"We actually lost about four people within about three months two years ago because they left the town which meant we lost four members pretty much overnight. "

Training is provided by the VRA and controlled by the state rescue board, with VRA members mostly responding to rescues and motor vehicle accidents.

"Any local people who are interested should reach out," Mr Annetts said.

Junee VRA member Julie Hedlund said members will have to meet every third Monday of each month for general meetings and the first and fourth Monday night of every month for training.

Those interested can call the Junee VRA at 1300 872 777.

Our journalists work hard to provide local, up-to-date news to the community. This is how you can continue to access our trusted content: