VICSES Frankston Unit volunteer named Young Victorian of the Year

Victoria State Emergency Service (VICSES) Frankston Unit volunteer, Molly Fergus, has been named the recipient of the prestigious Young Victorian of the Year Award, acknowledging her commitment as a volunteer in the community and as a foster carer.

Announced on Monday evening at a ceremony held by the Victoria Day Council at Melbourne Town Hall, the Young Victorian of the Year Award has acknowledged the outstanding efforts of young Victorians in the community and public service each year since 1996.

Molly is widely-respected as a VICSES volunteer with the Frankston Unit, rising through the ranks as a mentor and regularly supporting her community in times of emergency since joining the service two years ago.

During that time, Molly has attended more than 500 requests for assistance with the local unit, with her foster children a regular feature at unit events and training evenings in their miniature VICSES uniforms.

Since becoming an accredited foster carer in 2017, Molly has left a profound impact on her community by caring for 45 children, providing unwavering love and support throughout and forging a reputation of going above and beyond the typical responsibilities of a carer.

This commitment is exemplified by her care of Hannah*, a young girl who entered Molly’s care in 2020 as a six-month-old as part of Molly’s involvement with independent not-for-profit, OzChild.

Managing Hannah’s significant health challenges, including cerebral palsy and a compromised immune system, Molly has supported Hannah through medical appointments and dozens of hospital admissions to ensure she receives the best possible care.

Molly also successfully advocated for Hannah’s newborn sister Bianca* to be placed in her care as a two-day old, in turn ensuring the siblings could be kept together.

Molly’s selfless dedication to her bayside community is multi-faceted, and leaves a positive impact on each of the lives she touches.

At VICSES, we are extremely proud of members such as Molly, who embody the VICSES values by being pillars of their community, extraordinarily intertwined in their local area.

Quotes attributable to VICSES Frankston Unit volunteer and Young Victorian of the Year, Molly Fergus

“I’m thankful to VICSES for the care and support it has provided to my foster children and I. Foster carers don’t do what we do alone, and it’s been fantastic to be so welcomed by a ‘second family’ at the VICSES Frankston Unit.

“I’m very humbled by the award, and hope to continue making a positive impact on the community into the future.”

Quotes attributable to VICSES Senior Assistant Chief Officer, Ray Jasper

“Molly is a fantastic example of the values we love to see in our VICSES volunteers. She’s a selfless young individual who is always looking for ways to positively impact her community.

“This award is fantastic recognition for the commitment and dedication she showcases on a daily basis.”

*Names of children have been changed for privacy reasons