A career in public safety or emergency management beckons for a humble Marine Rescue Port Stephens (MRPS) member after a chance offer to attend a leadership program last November.
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Salamander Bay's Rebecca Harband was fortunate to be one of hundreds of applicants to be selected to attend the three-day emergency services course, which was hosted by the Australia Institute Disaster Resilience group in Albury.
"In addition to learning the different types of leadership styles and types of personalities and activities at the course, we were offered the opportunity to apply for a scholarship, which I did," the 40-year-old mother of two said.
"I was extremely excited when I found out I was a successful applicant. I could not have done it without the generous support from my unit commander Colin Foote and fellow radio operator Jenni Fryer."
After browsing through the list of courses, a diploma of public safety, emergency management caught Ms Harband's eye. She begins her studies later this month.
"I owe this success to all the men and women of MRPS and I am truly grateful for the opportunity I was given to attend the Albury leadership program.
"It provided me with the confidence to step outside of my comfort zone and it opened my eyes to the industry and allowed me to upskill in a variety of roles."
The program covered topics such as leadership, responsibility, coordination, organisation and dealing with personalities, while focusing on the psychological aspect of volunteering in the emergency services, including coping mechanisms involving traumatic events and PTSD.
Ms Harband said that the family's move from the Hawkesbury district to Port Stephens four years ago had provided her the impetus for a change in lifestyle and career choice.
"I have always wanted to give back to the community and the Coastal Patrol seemed to be the right organisation. I have now completed certificates in a range of courses."
Ms Harband said that there would be a range of possible career opportunities once she completes her diploma. They include emergency management, community engagement, region controller/manager, training officer, volunteer support, community resilience coordinator and management supervisor.
Commander Colin Foote said that winning the scholarship spoke volumes for Mr Harband's dedication to learning more about emergency management and public safety.
"Our unit is very proud of Rebecca and the manner in which she has embraced volunteering to support the boating and the broader general communities. And of course the community benefits from this scholarship and from all the volunteers who freely give their time to helping when assistance is needed."
