I’m new to Disaster Relief Australia (DRA), and Operation Harris was my first deployment — so I’d like to share a few reflections after my time on the ground.
My introduction to DRA happened purely by chance. I was having dinner at the Semaphore Surf Life Saving Club when, coincidentally, Operation Harris Wave 1 were there for their team dinner. I got chatting with the DRA volunteers and was immediately impressed by the group. That night, I went home, did some research, and applied to volunteer the very next day.
Before that evening, I hadn’t even heard of DRA — but what I saw stuck with me. The team presented themselves professionally and proudly, wearing their DRA shirts and representing the organisation with confidence. More importantly, they were polite, engaging, and genuine. They struck me as the kind of people who get things done — the kind of people who show up when others need help.
Now that my first operation has concluded, I am pleased to say that the experience lived up to my expectations. The volunteers from my wave were outstanding — hardworking, supportive, and reflective of what I imagine the DRA spirit to be across the country.
The South Australian community have been incredibly appreciative of the work we’ve done, and it’s been deeply satisfying to contribute alongside such capable and committed teammates. The camaraderie and sense of purpose that comes from serving together is something special.
Looking ahead, I’m eager to deploy again and continue developing my skills so I can make an even greater contribution to future operations. In the short term, I plan to reach out to DRA South Australia’s team to see how I can further assist and support the organisation between deployments.
DRA has a lot to offer — not just to the communities we serve, but to every volunteer who becomes part of it. For me, that’s certainly true. This experience has been meaningful and rewarding, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to give back in a hands-on way.
Grant.