Michael Bagnall

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

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.

Neil Fisher

Secretary

Neil is an operational member of the Emerald Unit in the Dandenong Ranges. He has previously held roles as Deputy Controller and Section Leader, and has served as the unit’s WHS Delegate.

He is a strong advocate for consultation across all levels of VICSES and sits as a member of the PPC&E Advisory Committee.

With a professional background in the arts sector, Neil brings extensive experience in project management, creative problem-solving, interpretation, crew leadership, and risk management.

Luke Herezo

Treasurer

Luke has been an active emergency services volunteer since 2006, with extensive experience across VICSES, NSW SES, and NSW VRA Rescue. He currently serves as Unit Controller of the VICSES Cobram Unit, after nearly a decade as Deputy Controller, and holds Finance Officer roles across multiple VICSES units.

Luke has deployed to numerous major incidents including floods, storms, and the 2013 Koomoonoo tornado, undertaking roles such as flood boat operator, chainsaw operator, and incident control support.

He remains operational with NSW SES Tocumwal as a Leading Senior Rescue Operator and contributes to community programs including GoodSAM and Be My Eyes.

Luke is actively involved in several VICSES working groups covering safety, training, fleet, financial management, and awards, helping shape the future of the organisation.

Luke is committed to strengthening the voice, capability, and recognition of volunteers across emergency services.

John Bates

Interim Board 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 Board 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 Board 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.