Now in its third year, the event brings together emergency service agencies in a family-friendly setting, designed to help children build familiarity with first responders in a fun and interactive way.
NSW SES Eurobodalla Cluster Community Engagement Officer, Jacklyn Roque, created the Playdates with Emergency Services initiative following the devastating Black Summer Bushfires in 2019/20.
"During the Black Summer Fires, I saw firsthand the impacts on the local children and the trauma which still exists in our community today because of the fires," she said.
"This program aims for children to build trust and feel comfortable with the local emergency service responders.
"It is also an opportunity to provide essential information to children and their parents on how to prepare for and respond to emergencies," she said.
NSW SES volunteers will showcase some of the vital equipment used in flood and storm response, provide hands-on activities, and share important preparedness tips.
NSW SES Eurobodalla Local Commander, Peter Collins, said the playdates are a valuable opportunity to connect with the community.
"This is about building trust and helping young people feel comfortable around emergency services. It also gives parents and carers the chance to learn simple ways to be more prepared for severe weather and emergencies," he said.
The Playdates with Emergency Services are a collaborative effort involving local council and local emergency services.
NSW SES, NSW Police, Fire and Rescue, NSW Rural Fire Service, Ambulance NSW, Marine Rescue, VRA Rescue NSW, Westpac Life Saver Rescue Helicopter, Katungul Aboriginal Cooperation, Red Cross and Fortem Australia will all attend to work together to save lives and create safer communities.
The NSW SES encourages families to come along, meet their local volunteers, and pick up resources that can help prepare for floods and storms.
The Playdates with Emergency Services will be held across four locations:
- Corrigans Beach Reserve, Batehaven: Monday, 13 October, 5:30 PM - 7:00 PM
- Quota Park, Riverside Dr, Narooma: Thursday, 16 October, 5:30 PM - 7:00 PM
- Mogo Sports Oval, Park Street, Mogo: Monday, 20 October 2025, 5:30 pm - 7 pm
- Riverside Park, Ford Street Moruya: Thursday, 23 October 2025, 5:30 pm - 7 pm
