VICSES contributes to successful search

VICSES volunteers and staff share the happy news that Luke Shambrook was found after a four-day search.

Victoria State Emergency Service (VICSES) volunteers and staff were so pleased to hear the news that Luke Shambrook had been found at Lake Eildon on Tuesday 7 April.

About 120 VICSES volunteers from 12 units participated in the four-day searchthrough dense bushland for Luke Shambrook after he went missing on Friday 3 April.

Brett Sargeant, a volunteer with the Lilydale Unit, who was part of the search on Monday, said it was one of the hardest searches that he’s participated in while volunteering with VICSES.  

“In some areas, we had to get down on our hands and knees and crawl because the bushland was so dense.”

“But it was such a fantastic result to have him found, everyone was so happy to hear the news.”

“Our volunteers’ dedication and commitment to the community this weekend has been exemplary,” said VICSES Chief Executive Officer Stephen Griffin.

“Each of our volunteers are highly trained specialists, who admirably gave up their Easter weekends with friends and family to serve the Victorian community.”

“We’re so happy that Luke has been reunited with his family, and I know that for our volunteers, it is moments like this that inspire them to give their time so willingly.”

Photo courtesy of the Lilydale Unit. A volunteer with the Lilydale Unit walks through dense bush during the search