John Hughes: Recognised for his work as controller of the Blue Mountains SES.
State Emergency Service (SES) controller John Hughes has been recognised for his work during the July 2011 storm disaster by being pictured on the front of the 2012/13 phone book.
John took on the job as SES controller for the Blue Mountains just five days before the storms hit on July 5, which saw a tree crush the carriage of a commuter train at Medlow Bath, numerous homes damaged, and power cut to more than 16,000 properties.
The storms resulted in a natural disaster area being declared by the State Government.
With John at the helm, the Blue Mountains SES responded to 1174 call outs — the most in the unit’s history.
A SES volunteer for 29 years, Hazelbrook resident John called on his experience to manage 56 units from other areas and other emergency services during the response.
His work has now resulted in him being selected to appear on the cover of the 2012/13 Penrith and Blue Mountains White Pages and Yellow Pages phone books in keeping with the theme of A Helping Hand, The Aussie Way.
John is responsible for one of the largest SES units in NSW, with 100 members that cover an area 80km wide.
“The July 2011 storm certainly made my first week as controller memorable, but when these things happen you just go into SES mode,” John said in a statement.
“I am grateful to have such a wonderful team of volunteers that support me and I hope this recognition is a boost for them, as their support makes my role so much easier.”
Each year, Sensis, the publisher of the White Pages and Yellow Pages, recognises the efforts of local people in their communities by celebrating their achievements on the cover of its books.
The theme for this year’s covers, A Helping Hand, The Aussie Way, was inspired by the thousands of Australians who go above and beyond to help someone in need, or their local community when times are tough.
This year’s White Pages and Yellow Pages book will be distributed over the next six weeks in a new compact-size format.
The height and width of the book has been reduced by 15 per cent and there is also a number of new design and layout improvements.
The book still includes the same content.
As part of White Pages and Yellow Pages accessibility services, magnifying aids are available free of charge for anyone who requires assistance searching the book for White Pages or Yellow Pages content.
Orders can be placed by ringing 1800 625 944 or by emailing magnifier@sensis.com.au.