Emergency service providers across East Gippsland, including CFA, SES, Life Saving Victoria, and Marine Search and Rescue have received substantial funding to support their ongoing service to the local community.
The grants are part of the Victorian Emergency Services Equipment Program (VESEP) grants, which provides funding for these groups to purchase essential operational equipment, vehicles and appliances and minor facility improvements.
Minister for Emergency Services Jaclyn Symes announced the 2023-2024 VESEP grant recipients that will share in almost $15 million to purchase equipment and enhance emergency response capability to ensure community safety.
Cann Valley CFA will use their $255,000 in VESEP funding to purchase a brand-new light tanker, which will allow them to better assist their community during an emergency.
“Emergency service volunteers work incredibly hard and put their lives on the line to keep us safe, and they deserve the best equipment and facilities possible,” Member for Eastern Victoria, Tom McIntosh, said.
“Congratulations to all the groups receiving grants. We are all so grateful for the work you do to protect our communities.”
Sarsfield CFA will be extending their current station with $100,000 in assistance through the fund.
Surf Life Saving Lakes Entrance will be acquiring a new Hilux 4×4 to assist in beach rescue operations, thanks to $45,481 in funding, while the Paynesville Coast Guard are receiving $20,629 to purchase thermal imaging and low light HD camera equipment.
Since 2015 the Allan Labor Government has provided $123 million in VESEP grants, ensuring volunteer groups throughout the state have the resources, equipment and facilities they need to continue their vital work supporting local communities.
Through this round of grants, CFA brigades have received more than $10.8 million, Victoria State Emergency Service units received more than $2.4 million, Life Saving Victoria’s surf lifesaving clubs received more than $850,000 and Marine Search and Rescue crews received more than $350,000.
These service providers are just some of the 233 applicants to receive a grant as part of the 2023-24 program.
– Bairnsdale CFA, Field Command Vehicle – XLT, $65,334
– Mount Taylor CFA, Field Command Vehicle – XLT, $65,334
– Sarsfield CFA, station extension, $100,000
– Tambo CFA, AV Equipment, $2971
– Tambo Valley SES, trailer replacement, $6700
– Gippsland Squadron (AVCGA), six iPads for Gippsland Vessels for onboard SMS, $3632
– Paynesville Coast Guard, $20,629
