New wheels for volunteers

LOCAL emergency service volunteers have received a long-awaited piece of equipment, boosting the Unit’s capability to respond to incidents.

On March 19, the Bacchus Marsh SES Unit received a brand-new Medium Rescue Truck from the VICSES Fleet Team, to support the increasing demand for Request for Assistance (RFA) in the Moorabool Shire.

The population over the past five to 10 years in the Moorabool Shire has shown significant growth and the emergency service call outs for Bacchus Marsh SES Unit members has been on the rise.

Bacchus Marsh SES Unit Controller, Mick Schembri, said he was thrilled with the addition to the fleet.

“The purchase of this truck has been made possible through government grants and the generous support of our community,” Mr Schembri said.

“This truck is a fantastic new resource for Bacchus Marsh SES and will improve our capability and response to the community.”

To complement current fleet resources to Bacchus Marsh SES, the new Medium Rescue Truck will now be able to respond from the Darley Satellite Headquarters, where callouts to the Darley area and greater access to the Western Highway.

Around two-thirds of the vehicle cost was covered by a VESEP Grant from the State Government, with volunteer fundraising making up the remainder – including funds from the Unit’s Christmas tree sales.

Mr Schembri also thanked the Bacchus Marsh Hospital Op Shop Ladies Auxiliary, who kindly donated $20,000 to fit the truck with rescue equipment.

Thanks have also gone out to the VICSES Assets and Fleet team for their work delivering the state-of-the-art vehicle.