Firies get grant boost

TWO Bendigo region volunteer fire brigades have received cash grants under a State Government scheme.

Eaglehawk CFA has been granted just over $53,000 to be put towards a new field command vehicle, while the brigade at Woodvale received $1765 for a new pump and piping at the station.

The money comes from the Volunteer Emergency Services Equipment Program as sees the State Government match $1 for every $2, up to $150,000 put in by the fire brigades, SES units and other volunteer emergency service groups.

“These important projects will give our hardworking CFA volunteers in Bendigo East the equipment and amenities needed to effectively carry out their duties,” said Member for Bendigo East Jacinta Allan, who attended the Eaglehawk station last week.

“I’d like to thank all of our volunteer groups for their hard work and congratulate the successful applicants in the 2020-21 round of VESEP grants.”

Statewide more than $14 million was distributed to 240 volunteer emergency service groups and along with the CFA, SES, surf lifesaving, and volunteer coast guard units also received cash.

The money has gone towards new fire trucks and tankers, support vehicles, boats, and trailers as well as equipment and capital works upgrades.

“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,” said 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.”