Volunteer Emergency Services across Hastings and the Western Port Region will be better able to equip their volunteers with resources thanks to Victorian Coalition Government funding, Member for Hastings, Neale Burgess MP said today.

 

Mr Burgess said Hastings Fire Brigade and the Western Port Volunteer Coast Guard were among more than 190 volunteer emergency services units across Victoria to receive funding under the $11.6m Volunteer Emergency Services Equipment Program (VESEP).

 

“All volunteer organisations in our community do great and important work in the face of difficult circumstances” Mr Burgess said.

 

“It is extremely important that our emergency services organisations are well equipped with the right tools and funding to get on with their vital work, which is the overriding purpose of this funding” Mr Burgess said.

 

“Under this program, Hastings Fire Brigade and the Western Port Volunteer Coast Guard have received thermal imaging cameras” Mr Burgess said.

 

Mr Burgess said every CFA brigade across Victoria would also receive a $1500 equipment grant and every brigade group would be allocated $5000 for equipment specifically suited to their needs.

 

“These CFA grants will be of great assistance to these local brigades, and can be used for training aids, station items, small items and operational equipment”, Mr Burgess said.

 

Mr Burgess said local volunteers give up their time and energy to respond to emergencies and are selfless in their efforts to protect lives and property.

 

“This is a great example of the way the community, government and emergency services agencies can work together to ensure that we are best placed to respond to emergencies.” Mr Burgess said.