FIREFIGHTERS across Geelong and the Surf Coast will be better equipped to fight fires, operate rescue vehicles, and have access to funds to upgrade brigade technology and facilities, thanks to a $5 million boost through the first round of the state\u00a0government\u2019s Enhancing Volunteerism Grants Program (EVGP).<\/p>\n
Brigades and districts that made successful individual and joint applications in Round 1 of the EVGP will receive a range of equipment, upgrades and training.<\/p>\n
In District 7, this includes:
\n\u2022 Operational equipment for the Grovedale Fire Brigade and Bellarine Group
\n\u2022 Minor station facility improvements or extensions for the Winchelsea Group and the Portarlington Fire Brigade, and
\n\u2022 Ancillary equipment and IT network improvements for the Coastal Group.<\/p>\n
Round 2 applications opened at the start of the month, giving brigades from across the state another\u00a0chance to tap into invaluable resources to support the communities they serve.<\/p>\n
In total, the two rounds will deliver $10 million in extra funding.<\/p>\n
CFA acting chief officer Garry Cook welcomed the announcement, saying brigades and districts had been successful in securing almost 250 EVGP grants in round 1.<\/p>\n
\u201cWhile fighting bushfires is core to what we do, our volunteers do so much more. They attend urban house fires, motor vehicle accidents, natural disasters and provide essential community safety education initiatives.<\/p>\n
\u201cThese grants will support, equip and enable our volunteers to continue to meet changes in community needs, the environment and technology across the range of services they deliver.<\/p>\n
\u201cHaving the equipment and support they need helps brigades keep their communities safe, retain and attract members, and prepare for and respond to emergencies.\u201d<\/p>\n
CFA chief executive officer Paul Smith said the grants would provide vital support to volunteers \u2013 both those on the frontline and those in supporting roles.<\/p>\n
\u201cFunding initiatives like the Enhancing Volunteerism Grants Program deliver a significant\u00a0boost in helping our brigades serve their communities.<\/p>\n
\u201cThis initiative will help us recruit and retain volunteers, as well as enhance their capability to deliver on their mission.\u201d<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
FIREFIGHTERS across Geelong and the Surf Coast will be better equipped to fight fires, operate rescue vehicles, and have access to funds to upgrade brigade technology and facilities, thanks to a $5 million boost through the first round of the state\u00a0government\u2019s Enhancing Volunteerism Grants Program (EVGP). Brigades and districts that made successful individual and joint […]<\/p>\n