FEMALE VICSES volunteers from across the Hume region came together in Wangaratta at the weekend, as part of the region's VICSES Women in Rescue (WIR) event.

The growing initiative, which celebrates women in emergency operations, allows female volunteers to get hands–on with tools and equipment, share rescue skills and network in a safe and supportive environment.

Women from across the North East, including SES brigades at Myrtleford, Euroa, Cobram, Seymour, Yarrawonga, Wodonga, Kinglake, Tallangatta, Seymour, Shepparton and Numurkah, as well as Kiewa CFA members, turned out to Saturday's event, which saw a 93 per cent increase in uptake across the state this year.

Wangaratta attendees undertook a number of skills–based demonstrations throughout the day, including road crash rescue techniques, chainsaw skills and casualty handling training.

VICSES chief executive officer Stephen Griffin said the event, which was held at eight locations across the state, had proved a valuable initiative for volunteers of all skill levels.

"The Women in Rescue initiative provides a great opportunity for both experienced and newer members to come together and share their skills and knowledge in a supportive environment," he said.

"It also provides a fantastic opportunity to network with fellow female volunteers from across your region.

"WIR aims to empower women to showcase their skills in contributing to the safety of our communities – it is critical that we reflect the communities we serve, and build the confidence and leadership among our women in orange.

"Our female first responders at VICSES are incredible, and attend highly complex, challenging incidents – our Women in Rescue event showcases their life–saving skills, using the latest rescue technology and training."

Across the state, some 1655 females volunteer with SES, a figure which makes up 34 per cent of the volunteer–base.

To volunteer with VICSES, or for further information, visit ses.vic.gov.au/join–us.