Ararat Unit gets involved in the PARTY program

Victoria State Emergency Service (VICSES) helped Year 11 students from Ararat College to a dose of reality as part of the Prevent Alcohol and Risk Related Trauma in Youth (PARTY) program.

During a visit to the Urgent Care Centre at East Grampians Health Service, the students were given presentations by local VICSES, police and ambulance members who provided insight into the impact of risk taking behaviours, following a scenario developed by students in the program.

The program aims to prevent alcohol and risk related trauma in youth within the region and was an initiative of the Alfred Hospital, brought to Ararat College by the school nurse.

VICSES Ararat Controller Donna Dunmore was assisted by a junior member of the unit who was able to relate the presentation to their peers and prompt questions that may be relevant to young people.

VICSES involvement in Road Crash Rescue gives members first-hand experience at what risk-taking behaviour can result in, and as such, can make for powerful and influential speakers.

One of the main messages highlighted to the students was to never withhold information from emergency services, no matter how much trouble you may get into. It could be a matter of life or death.