Rochester VICSES is among the emergency services receiving funding to be better equipped to protect the community.
More than $96,000 has been granted by the Victorian Government for the group to be put towards a new support vehicle.
The funding comes from the Volunteer Emergency Services Equipment Program, which supports volunteer groups with upgrades to buildings and vehicles.
The $96,472 will be put towards a new Ranger 4x4, the group’s support vehicle.
As the control agency for floods and storms, among other natural disasters, the SES’ support vehicle is critical to respond to these disasters.
“It’s really good,” volunteer Judith Gledhill said.
“It’s nice to replace our vehicle.”
Emergency Services Minister and State Member for Northern Victoria Jaclyn Symes acknowledged the importance of volunteers in the emergency service when announcing the funding.
“The Volunteer Emergency Services Equipment Program provides volunteers with the equipment and facilities they need to continue their selfless work safely,” she said.
“Our emergency services volunteers work incredibly hard to keep our communities safe, which is why we’ve invested more than $138 million in VESEP grants to support the critical work they do.
“Congratulations to all the deserving volunteer groups in receiving grants. The Volunteer Emergency Services Equipment Program is an important annual program providing a critical boost to local volunteers, ensuring their equipment and facilities are up to date.”
The Rochester team expects to have the vehicle up and running within the next 12 months.