Local first responders to share in $220,000 of funding says Walsh

The Nationals leader and Member for Murray Plains, Peter Walsh, said four CFA brigades, Echuca Moama Search and Rescue and Echuca SES – across his electorate of Murray Plains – will share in $220,000 funding under the latest round of the Volunteer Emergency Services Equipment Program (VESEP).

Mr Walsh said it was important local emergency services were well equipped, with an increased risk of grassfires forecast this summer following a wet winter and spring.

“These grants will allow recipients to purchase critical operational equipment and appliances to help serve and protect our local communities ahead of the approaching fire season,” Mr Walsh added.

“For these first responders; this type of funding for vehicles and appliances and minor facility improvements will ensure local emergency response capabilities are well equipped and supported.

“The VESEP provides $2 for every $1 raised by local units and brigades whom do an extraordinary amount of their own fundraising throughout the year. The largest grant in this round of funding was almost $70,000 towards vehicles and appliances for Echuca’s SES,” he said.

Victorian Volunteer Emergency Service groups can apply for a grant up to a maximum of $150,000 excluding GST. The VESEP will provide $2 for every $1 of funding contributed by the local volunteer group.

The successful CFA, search and rescue and SES units were: