Sheed welcomes emergency services funding boost
EMERGENCY services volunteer groups in the Shepparton District electorate will share in almost $200,000 to help them buy much-needed equipment as part of the 2015-16 Volunteer Emergency Services Equipment Program (VESEP).
Member for Shepparton District Suzanna Sheed said the four local organisations receiving VESEP grants will be able to fund operational equipment such as trucks, trailers and other life-saving equipment.
Recipients of the funding include Numurkah SES $100,000, Mooroopna CFA $7,666, Nathalia CFA $7,667 and Shepparton Search and Rescue Squad $75,758.
|
Club |
Item funded |
VESEP contribution |
Local group contribution |
Total |
|
Mooroopna CFA |
Thermal Imaging Camera |
$7,666 |
$3,834 |
$11,500 |
|
Nathalia CFA |
Thermal Imaging Camera |
$7,667 |
$3,833 |
$11,500 |
|
Shepparton Search and Rescue Squad |
Storm and lighting trailer |
$75,758 |
$37,879 |
$113,637 |
|
Numurkah SES |
Mercedes Light Rescue Truck |
$100,000 |
$70,744.20 |
$170,744.20 |
Ms Sheed said the grants would provide volunteers with the equipment they need to protect communities across the Shepparton District.
“The equipment needed to properly respond to emergencies is a big cost burden and this funding will go a long way towards reducing pressure on our volunteers,” she said.
“Volunteers are the backbone of our region. They help protect the lives of more than 3.3 million Victorians and deserve our support.”
Under the program, the government has contributed $2 for every $1 contributed by local volunteer groups from organisations including the Australian Volunteer Coast Guard Association, Country Fire Authority, Life Saving Victoria, Victoria State Emergency Service and other eligible volunteer emergency services groups.
In addition to individual grants, volunteers will also benefit from state-wide initiatives such as $1.9 million to CFA to replace equipment, provide specialist clothing and thermal imaging cameras across Victoria and more than $51,000 to LSV to purchase helmets to improve member safety on inflatable rescue boats.
Media contact: Ronni Druitt, ronni.druitt@parliament.vic.gov.au 03 5831 6944
