Krystal Turner says the COVID-19 pandemic has made it challenging for people to connect with others if they are new to the area.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Ms Turner joined the NSW SES Port Macquarie unit at the start of the year after moving to town from Newcastle.
The 26-year-old was keen to join a community group as a way to meet new people.
She's successfully been able to connect with others, despite undertaking majority of her training online.
The Charles Sturt University student is currently studying paramedicine.
The training provided by the NSW SES complements Ms Turner's studies and also provides her with new skills.
"I've learnt about vertical rescues and flood incidents," she said.
Ms Turner has recently been able to participate in two face to face training sessions, due to the easing of COVID-19 restrictions.
"They were very exciting and fun," she said.
"I'm keen to have more."
The Port Macquarie unit has been split into two groups, to reduce contact under COVID-19 health restrictions.
In her first face to face training session Ms Turner learnt about the area through participating in a scavenger hunt and utilising navigation skills.
In the second training session Ms Turner and others witnessed another team practice rescues from vehicles.
Ms Turner said for people who are new to the area, it's important to join community groups as a way to meet others.
The message resonates under circumstances such as the one posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.
"I had never thought about it prior to moving," she said.
"Now I'm here I'm loving it."
She is encouraging her housemates to join the organisation too.
What else is making news?
While you're with us, you can now receive updates straight to your inbox from the Port Macquarie News. To make sure you're up to date with all the news, sign up here.If you would like to support our journalists you can subscribe here.
