At first glance, the vibrant orange overalls might look like standard issue for Victoria State Emergency Service (VICSES) volunteers, but for Peter Bulubali, Philemon Roroi, and Nathaniel Tutugu, they symbolize something far deeper, a dream realized, a milestone achieved, and a promise to give back, both in Australia and their homeland, the Solomon Islands.
All three young men have been working at JBS Cobram (Abattoirs) for past 2 years, under the Pacific Australia Labour Mobility (PALM) Scheme, which they applied for to experience life in Australia with an employment opportunity to earn good money to build a better future for themselves and their families back home in Solomon Islands.
Peter came across the Cobram SES Unit on facebook while searching for volunteer work that would not only help the community but would give him something to do in his spare time. As he looked into the service they saw that the VICSES is the control agency for storm, flood, earthquake, tsunami and landslide throughout Victoria, and also provides the largest road rescue network in Australia. The three friends agreed that this would be an excellent service to volunteer for whilst in Australia.
After completing their three-month probation with VICSES, the trio proudly received their uniforms, becoming the first people from the Solomon Islands to officially join the service in Victoria. “We were ecstatic,” said Peter. “Wearing the orange uniform is not just about looking the part, it represents our commitment to helping the community and being part of something bigger than ourselves.”
Immersive, Intensive Training
Their journey into the world of emergency services has been marked by hands-on, intensive training. From the precise techniques of removing rings and pipes from injured limbs without exacerbating injuries, to complex interagency simulations with police, ambulance, and firefighters during road crash rescues, every session is designed to prepare them for the unpredictable nature of emergencies.
The training schedule doesn’t stop there. Upcoming modules will cover a wide range of scenarios: boating accidents, missing person searches, earthquake response, fire support operations, large animal rescues, and even body recovery in rescue boats. Alongside this, they are also offered certified courses in First Aid, Chainsaw Safety, 4WD operation, and marine safety training opportunities rarely available back home.
“The safety standards here are incredibly high, and for good reason,” said Nathaniel. “Before we can even respond to a call-out, we need to complete the Crew Member Level One assessment under the supervision of experienced team members. That way, everyone, like victims and responders, stays safe.”
A World-Class Facility
The VICSES unit where the trio trains is a world away from what they knew in the Solomon Islands. The facility boasts four motor bays, a dedicated communications room, large meeting areas, a locker room, and even a fully-equipped laundry. Their fleet of modern trucks, boats, and rescue vehicles are fitted with the latest tools and technology.
Peter noted the stark contrast: “The infrastructure, vehicles, and Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) here are top-of-the-line. We’re provided with everything from safety glasses and gloves to wet weather gear and helmets. It’s a huge difference from back home, where resources can be limited.”
Looking Ahead and Back Home
Though they are firmly focused on their duties in Victoria, all three men are also thinking ahead to how they can give back to their own communities.
“Our goal is to return home one day and pass on what we’ve learned,” said Philemon. “We want to teach others these life-saving skills and help build emergency response capacity in the Solomon Islands.”
A Message to Fellow Islanders
The men have a resounding message for their fellow Solomon Islanders, particularly those living in Australia: consider volunteering.
“Joining the SES has changed our lives,” said Nathaniel. “You gain skills that help in every aspect of life, make lifelong friends, and become part of something meaningful. Best of all, it doesn’t cost you anything. Training and uniforms are all provided. All it takes is your time and dedication.”
For those unsure if emergency services are the right fit, they offer this advice: explore your options.
“There are so many volunteer opportunities in Australia,” said Peter. “If SES isn’t for you, look at community support groups, cultural associations, or environmental organisations. The important thing is to give back.”
Growing Through Service
The trio’s journey is a testament to the power of volunteering, not just in serving the community but in personal growth and cross-cultural exchange. As they continue their training and prepare for their first call-outs, they carry with them not only the spirit of service but also the hope of sharing their experience with others, both here and back home.
“It’s not just about helping today,” said Philemon. “It’s about building skills and knowledge that will help us for a lifetime.”
Peter said “Our friends and family are very supportive and proud that we have joined the SES . They are so happy that we are the first people from Solomon Islands to join VicSES. This has inspired many of our friends and fellow JBS workmates to look at volunteer options and has led to around 10 Solomon Islanders applying for volunteering with our local CFA Firefighters.
He also said “JBS have been very supportive of our volunteer work, it is company policy to support and encourage volunteer workers . Our unit held an Open Day in April. This was a family friendly event held at our unit, a road crash rescue demonstration , with activities for children , and a free bbq lunch. The whole community was invited to come to the Open Day. Some of our friends attended as they are interested in what SES does, but we didn’t expect management and many supervisors from JBS to attend. We were so happy and proud to show them our unit and grateful that they would give up their precious weekend time to come along and support their workers.”
Luke Herezo , Unit Controller , Cobram SES , Eastern Region stated that it’s with immense pride and gratitude that I write this in support of the remarkable work being done by Peter Bulubali, Philemon Roroi, and Nathaniel Tutugu, three outstanding volunteers who have joined the Cobram SES Unit as part of their journey in Australia under the Pacific Australia Labour Mobility (PALM) Scheme.
Since joining our unit, these three men have demonstrated unwavering commitment, curiosity, and passion for community service. They embody everything we value in SES volunteers teamwork, resilience, a willingness to learn, and a genuine desire to make a difference. Despite juggling full-time work at JBS Cobram and navigating a new cultural environment, they show up every Monday night ready to train, ready to grow, and ready to serve.
They’ve taken on training across multiple emergency disciplines storm and flood response, road crash rescue, interagency scenarios, and more always eager, always humble, and always with a smile. Their progress has been exceptional, and it’s been a privilege to watch their skills and confidence grow. The fact that they are the first from the Solomon Islands to join VICSES is not only a proud milestone for them but for our whole unit.
Their involvement is already inspiring others within the PALM community to explore volunteer opportunities. This ripple effect highlights the broader value of their contribution not just in emergencies, but in building stronger, more inclusive communities.
To Peter, Philemon, and Nathaniel thank you for choosing to be part of Cobram SES. Your dedication and spirit enrich our team, and we’re proud to stand beside you in orange.
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Thoughts? Iumi stori
