Major boost for emergency services in macedon

The Andrews Labor Government has invested $838,928 in emergency services in Macedon to provide essential vehicles and appliances for local volunteers.

Member for Macedon Mary-Anne Thomas today announced that the Elphinstone, Fryerstown, Romsey and Woodend CFAs would all receive funding to help protect their local community.

These projects are amongst 240 grants sharing in more than $14 million in funding under the government’s 2020-21 Volunteer Emergency Services Equipment Program (VESEP).

Grant recipients include:

Elphinstone CFA, who have received $2,261 for a new air conditioner Fryerstown CFA, who have received $193,333 for a new light tanker Romsey CFA, who have received a $321,667 for a new medium tanker Woodend CFA, who have received a $321,667 for a new medium tanker Under the program, the Victorian Government matches every $1 paid by volunteer groups with a $2 co-contribution up to $150,000 per project. This brings the total investment in this project to $985,891.

The annual grants program gives volunteer emergency service groups the opportunity to apply for grants of up to $150,000 to purchase equipment including vehicles, trucks, tankers, watercraft and trailers, and for minor improvements including refurbishments and amenities, such as kitchens and change rooms.

For more information about the VESEP, visit the Emergency Management Victoria website – emv.vic.gov.au.

Quotes attributable to Acting Minister for Police and Emergency Services Danny Pearson
"We’re ensuring our emergency service volunteers are well resourced with the essential equipment they need to carry out their critical work."

"Emergency service volunteers make selfless and brave contributions to local communities and the broader Victorian community – and the Volunteer Emergency Services Equipment Program supports their ongoing dedication to keeping Victorians safe."

Quotes attributable to Member for Macedon Mary-Anne Thomas
"These important grants will give our hardworking CFA volunteers in Macedon the equipment and amenities needed to effectively carry out their duties."

"I’d like to thank all of our volunteers for their hard work – our community is so grateful for all that you do."