SES operators are trained and accredited to free people who have been trapped in motor vehicles after accidents.

This involves cutting open vehicles and extracting injured people in such a way as not to make their injuries worse.

The operators are trained to work alongside police, paramedics, and Rural Fire Service and NSW Fire and Rescue personnel who may also respond to an incident.

“The RCR course follows on from the general rescue training volunteers undertake after joining the SES,” Moruya SES controller Alan Mitchell said.

“Not everybody is cut out for RCR work. After completion of general rescue training, there are opportunities to specialise in operations control, administration, training, logistics and maintenance, flood rescue (including flood boat operation) and vertical rescue, as well as storm and water damage control.

“The RCR course involves both theory and practical work. Practise involves learning how to use hydraulic and other tools to open up the bodies of damaged cars. As well as training our new course, the Moruya Unit needs to provide continuation training for its existing RCR operators.”

Moruya SES is appealing for donations of old cars - preferably those that have been accident-damaged.

“We will remove cars from properties from Mogo to Bodalla at no charge,” Mr Mitchell said.