New SES hub to boost Bannockburn emergency response

A NEW Victoria State Emergency Service (VICSES) unit is being

built in Bannockburn to support volunteers and improve emergency response capacity as the local population grows.

Emergency Services Minister Vicki Ward visited Bannockburn this week to announce the location of the new headquarters at 18 Dann Road and thank volunteers for nearly five decades of service.

The new facility will include dedicated training spaces, wellbeing areas, and improved on-site storage for vehicles and equipment. It will also feature environmentally sustainable design elements such as solar panels and water recycling.

Design is under way, with a construction tender expected to be released mid-year.

The project is part of a $26 million investment by the Victorian government to upgrade VICSES units across the state.

The Bannockburn Unit has 30 operational members and has responded to 3,000 requests for assistance since forming in 1977.

The unit played a key role in major emergencies including the Ash Wednesday fires and the 2010–11 floods, and assisted during the 2022 floods in Sydney and Lismore.

“This new facility will ensure they have what they need for years to come and help attract more volunteers,” Ms Ward said.

Geelong MP Christine Couzens said the new base would improve the region’s emergency preparedness.

VICSES acting chief officer Alistair Drayton said the upgraded unit would support the work of local volunteers and help bring new members on board.