FUNDING BOOST FOR MACEDON EMERGENCY SERVICES VOLUNTEERS

Volunteer emergency services organisations in Macedon have received a funding boost to support their ongoing service to the local community as part of the Volunteer Emergency Services Equipment Program (VESEP) grants.

Minister for Emergency Services Jaclyn Symes has announced the 2024-25 VESEP grant recipients that will share in more than $15 million to purchase new equipment, improve emergency response capability and support community safety.

Eight grants, with a total value of $491,913 were awarded to volunteer emergency services organisations in Macedon including:

Agency Name | Project Description | VESEP grant contribution
Franklinford CFA: Thermal Imaging Camera - $2,340
Benloch CFA: Thermal Imaging Camera - $2,340
Bullengarook CFA: Ultra Light Tanker - $140,833
Malmsbury CFA: Field Command Vehicle - XLT $71,000
Porcupine Ridge CFA: Station Extension - $125,000
Romsey CFA: External Station Renovations & Generator Upgrade - $46,900
Romsey CFA: Marquee, Table, Clothes - $2,000
VICSES Gisborne: Toyota Hilux - Gisborne Support 2 (2014 Ford Ranger) Replacement - $101,500

VESEP is an annual grants program that provides funding to Victorian emergency services volunteer groups to purchase essential operational equipment, vehicles and appliances and undertake minor facility improvements.

Since 2015, the Allan Labor Government has provided $138 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, Country Fire Authority brigades have received more than $11 million, Victoria State Emergency Service units received more than $2.5 million, Life Saving Victoria’s surf lifesaving clubs received more than $879,000 and Marine Search and Rescue crews received more than $368,000.

There are 268 projects to receive a grant as part of the 2024-25 program.

Quote attributable to Member for Macedon, Mary-Anne Thomas
“Congratulations to our successful volunteer groups in Macedon. Thank you for your tireless work across our community. The Volunteer Emergency Services Equipment Program is an important annual program providing a critical boost to local volunteers, ensuring their equipment and facilities are up to date.”‍

Quotes attributable to Minister for Emergency Services Jaclyn Symes
“We know this funding will provide a vital boost for our selfless volunteers who are always there for Victorians when they need them.”

“Volunteers look forward to the VESEP grants every year – we’re proud to support the vital
fundraising work they do with this program.”