About
Empowering VICSES Volunteers Everywhere
Volunteer Leadership Group is dedicated to empowering VICSES volunteers by offering a platform that ensures their voices are heard, valued, and represented. We are committed to fostering a supportive community that upholds integrity, collaboration, and service excellence to advance our mission and impact.
View our constitution
Empowering VICSES Volunteers Every Day
Meet the dedicated inaugural (interim) board driving our mission forward.
Michael Bagnall
Interim President
Michael is a committed volunteer leader and currently serving as Unit Controller of Footscray unit. He has previously held Unit Controller roles both at Gisborne and Wedderburn Units. As the founding President of the VICSES VLG, Michael has played a key role in establishing a stronger voice for volunteers across the state. He is an active member of the VICSES State Awards Committee, advocating for the recognition, engagement, and support of volunteers at all levels. Michael brings a collaborative approach, deep operational experience, and a strong focus on governance and innovation. He is a respected advocate for positive change and community resilience within VICSES.
Goldie Pergl
Interim Vice President
Goldie is an experienced volunteer manager in the EM sector, and an accredited Professional Leader of Volunteers with Volunteering Victoria. She has a strong background in crisis planning, volunteer leadership and governance, and is passionate about community resilience and empowering diverse teams to thrive. Goldie is a member of the Women in Lifesaving panel and the Unit Controller of Fawkner Unit.
Justin Kibell
Interim Secretary
Justin has been an integral member of VICSES since 1990, showcasing exceptional leadership and operational skills. He has held key roles across all areas of unit management and is currently the Unit Controller of Nillumbik Unit. Justin has previously worked in VICSES State Operations, including as the State Duty Officer, and continues to works in the EM sector in a learning and development role. Justin is Life Member of VICSES.
Matthew Rankin
Interim Treasurer
Matthew has over a decade of VICSES experience and is Deputy Controller at Whitehorse Unit, where he drives capability growth, sustainability, and advocacy for members. A practical, solution-oriented leader, he is passionate about keeping VICSES at the forefront of rescue services and creating opportunities for volunteers to develop their skills. He contributes to the Fleet Working Group and Road Rescue General Rescue Taskforce, helped design the Next Generation Heavy Rescue Truck, and brings wider industry experience from Triple Zero Victoria and Ambulance Victoria.
John Bates
Interim Committee Member
John is a long standing member, and former Unit Controller of Essendon Unit. Outside of VICSES, he was the Research Strategy Director at Natural Hazards Research Australia, the Research Director at the Bushfire and Natural Hazards Cooperative Research Centre and the founding Director of the Australian Institute for Disaster Resilience. John was Editor-in-Chief of the Australian Journal of Emergency Management from 2018 – 2020.
George Haitidis
Interim Committee Member
George has proudly served with VICSES since 2005 and is the current Unit Controller of Monash Unit. With almost two decades of experience, he is recognised for his strong leadership, dedication, and commitment to both members and the community. George fosters an inclusive, supportive environment where volunteers feel valued, develop their skills, and work effectively together. Known for his care for member wellbeing, he advocates strongly for VICSES volunteers and ensures they have the resources they need. His focus on mentoring, training, and resilience has made him a respected and trusted leader.
Ben Owen
Interim Committee Member
Ben is a dedicated member of VICSES 20+ years experience, including more than 11 years as the Unit Controller of Emerald Unit. During his tenure, he led the unit through major emergencies, including the devastating June 2021 storms, and was instrumental in securing a new, modern facility for the Emerald community. Known for his leadership, resilience, and commitment to volunteerism, Ben stepped down as Unit Controller in May 2025 but remains an active member of the unit. He joins the VLG to help build a stronger voice for volunteers across VICSES, aiming to improve support, share ideas, and ensure better representation for units and members across the state.
Contact
Reach out to the VLG for more information