As Victorians were given a stern reminder of how high-risk weather events and catastrophic bushfires in the warmer months are increasingly challenging for our emergency services, one local volunteer was recognised for more than 20 years of diligently keeping us safe.
Victoria State Emergency Service (VICSES) Monash Unit leader, George Haitidis was one of two outstanding VICSES volunteers recognised for their role in supporting both the community and their fellow volunteers, when they were awarded the Emergency Services Medal (ESM) as part of the 2026 Australia Day Honours.
The ESM is the highest honour available to VICSES volunteers and recognises their commitment to emergency response in Victoria and further afield. George and Gisborne's Dianne Dale were honoured for more than two decades of distinguished service.
George joined the VICSES Monash Unit in 2005 and, by 2008, he was made a section leader. He was elevated to Unit Controller later that year, and has held that position for 18 years.
At the head of a dedicated team of 68 members, George has worked tirelessly to keep the community safe. That dedication was never more apparent than on 13 February 2024 when a supercell storm battered Monash, causing some of the worst storm devastation it had ever seen.
VICSES Monash Unit volunteers were called to almost 1,200 requests for assistance by the end of the event, with George working to assist his volunteers on the ground while consulting Monash Council to help coordinate the recovery effort.
George was inducted as a VICSES Monash Unit Life Member earlier this year.
