Former Karratha SES volunteer Leslie Hayter honoured with life membership

A former Karratha volunteer who helped shape emergency services across Western Australia has been recognised with one of the State’s highest honours for his decades of dedication.

Leslie “Les” Hayter, who began his State Emergency Service career in Karratha in 1990, was presented with life membership of the Margaret River SES last month — a prestigious recognition reserved for those who make a meaningful impact on the emergency services.

Over more than 35 years, Mr Hayter has become a highly respected emergency responder, trainer assessor, and training and curriculum officer, with his influence extending well beyond the Pilbara where his journey began.

Margaret River SES manager Rowie Saunders said Mr Hayter’s time in Karratha launched a career in which he went on to shape training standards and mentor countless volunteers across WA.

“Les is widely known for his exceptional work ethic, operational expertise, and passion for ensuring SES volunteers are well trained, confident and prepared for real-world emergencies,” she said.

“His influence has extended well beyond any single unit, shaping training standards, mentoring countless volunteers, and strengthening capability across the SES.

“Recognising Les with life membership acknowledges not only the length of his service, but the quality, consistency and integrity of his contribution.”

The SES is a volunteer-based emergency service supporting communities during natural disasters and emergencies.

Ms Saunders said Mr Hayter’s legacy was reflected in the professionalism and capabilities of SES teams across the State.

“He is a true character within the organisation — someone who has brought not only deep operational insight, but also warmth, humour, and joy to the SES community,” she said.

“Together, Les and his wife Gillian have spent half their lives committed to community safety, contributing countless volunteer hours in service of others.

“Les is widely regarded not only as an exceptional emergency services contributor, but as a genuinely kind and wonderful human being whose influence continues to be felt well beyond his own unit.”

Ms Saunders said the Margaret River SES was proud to honour his legacy, which began in the Pilbara more than three decades ago.