Moruya SES have welcomed the girl guides into their inner sanctum for the past three years, sharing what they do and, more importantly, why they do it.

“It’s a bit of a change from the way we usually do things,” unit controller Jeff McMahon said.

“We had a conversation about flood rescues, and that we volunteer to do it because we like to help people.

“It felt like a penny dropped with them – their leaders are volunteers as well.

“It’s a concept that’s really good to get across at that time in their life, that lots of people in the community give their time and effort for free. We’re a caring nation – we look after each other.”

Mr McMahon said the evening included a run-down on the SES, a tour of the unit and some practical activities.

“We had a rope set up with a crane on the mezzanine level, and they worked on knots and pulling weights with them,” he said.

“They had a go at the hydraulic ram, lifting a vehicle.

“You can just see their face go ‘wow’ as they realise they’re actually lifting the vehicle all by themselves.”

Mr McMahon said the evening was done in a community spirit – and that both parties got plenty of enjoyment out of it.

“We like them,” he said.

A Moruya Girl Guides spokeswoman said the feeling was mutual. 

“They had a great time, it’s the highlight of their year,” she said.

“I was very impressed with how they put together all the activities – it was very hands on.”