Donations go a long way for local SES branch

TWO Bellarine community groups have made generous donations to the local State Emergency Service (SES) branch, which will assist the unit undertake future jobs.

A combined $1,700 donation from the Lions Club of Leopold and the Queenscliff Men’s Shed to Bellarine SES has been put towards a new marquee and a brand new Milwaukee wet/dry vacuum.

Bellarine SES deputy controller Rachel Vella said the unit is extremely grateful for the financial contributions from both community groups.

“We rely on community donations because we only get a set amount of funding each year from the government which only covers a portion of our operating costs,” Ms Vella said.

“So to be able to get additional funds to actually purchase new equipment, such a new vacuum for the first time in 20 years, allows us to better serve the community and we could not be more appreciative of that.”

Ms Vella added the new resources will provide an invaluable benefit to the crew while undertaking jobs, particularly in wet weather.

The new battery-powered vacuum provides a timely alternative to the previous vacuum and is capable of removing large amounts of water from affected properties.

The marquee will serve as an ideal tool for sheltering both crew members and rescued residents on both hot, cold, and wet days as a means of shade and bracing the region’s elements.

“There’s nothing worse than not having shelter when it’s needed during a job, but one thing about this community is its resilience and communication,” Ms Vella said.

“Local presidents and organisations are always reaching out to one another asking if there are any ways they can help and it also allows the community to rely on one another.

“It just makes the area a whole lot more friendly.”

Lions Club of Leopold secretary Linda Morse said its donation falls in-line with the Lions motto of serving the community.

“Allowing the SES to conduct their tasks out in the field to the best of their ability is incredibly important,” Ms Morse said.

“Our local branch is awesome and they do a terrific job in what is a rural area, but like everyone else they are looking for volunteers, so hopefully these new resources can help with that as well.”

The Queenscliff Men’s Shed has also committed to another $1,000 in donations, which will soon be put towards a general purpose vehicle trailer.