Elphinstone fire station to get major upgrade

The Victorian Government is funding a makeover of the Elphinstone fire station, delivering a significant boost to emergency services in the central Victorian town.

Member for Macedon Mary-Anne Thomas today announced that Elphinstone Fire Brigade is receiving a $230,000 grant, allocated through the CFA’s $10 million Enhancing Volunteerism Grants Program (EVGP).

The program – which is funded by an additional $60 million the government announced for the fire services last year – supports equipment and facility upgrades, as well as local initiatives that strengthen volunteerism and brigade culture.

The grant will fund an 80-square-metre extension to the station, which will create more space for the brigade’s volunteers, as well as provide a separate toilet for female members.

The station will also be connected to the internet, while the security system will be upgraded to protect the brigade’s equipment and other assets.

The Elphinstone Fire Brigade was established in 1935, and currently has 29 operational members.

Volunteers attend about 50 incidents each year, including bushfires, grass fires, house fires and motor vehicle accidents.

As part of the EVGP, the CFA has approved projects that address a range of key criteria, including:

addressing immediate needs and enhancing operational capability improving culture, diversity and fairness strengthening volunteer leadership skills encouraging recruitment, retention and recognition of volunteers reflecting the evolving needs and demographics of the communities that volunteer brigades serve.

Quotes attributable to Member for Macedon, Mary-Anne Thomas
"The Elphinstone Fire Brigade has been an integral part of this community for more than 80 years and has a proud record of responding to every incident to which they have been called out to over the last 28 years."

"I’m delighted the Victorian Government and CFA have been able to support this station upgrade, delivering a safer working environment and much-needed female-friendly change and toilet facilities."