Wonthaggi, Inverloch and Cape Paterson win emergency grants
Eight emergency services groups across Bass Coast and South Gippsland will share $304,845 in a record investment from the State Government.
Wonthaggi emergency services will share more than $118,000 while Inverloch and Cape Paterson lifesavers receive almost $60,000 in a record statewide equipment funding round.
Wonthaggi Fire Brigade will receive $76,400 for a field command vehicle and Wonthaggi SES will receive $41,953 to fit out its new unit with solar panels and battery storage.
Cape Paterson Surf Life Saving Club will receive $41,467 for an Isuzu crew cab ute while Inverloch Surf Life Saving Club will receive $18,232 towards rescue equipment including two rescue boards, defibrillators and a Tohatsu motor.
Woolamai Beach Surf Life Saving Club will also receive $24,267 towards a Can-Am Defender rapid response vehicle and signage.
The grants are part of a record $31 million Volunteer Emergency Services Equipment Program round supporting 350 CFA, VICSES, Life Saving Victoria and Volunteer Marine Search and Rescue projects across Victoria.
Almost $20 million will go towards new vehicles, more than $5 million to facility improvements and more than $1 million to operational equipment.
State Bass MP Jordan Crugnale welcomed the local grants and credited volunteers and supporters who raise money towards projects through the program's co-contribution requirements.
"These grants are only possible because of the incredible fundraising efforts undertaken by volunteers and their supporters throughout the year," Ms Crugnale said.
"Whether it's street stalls, raffles, community events, market days or countless other activities, local volunteers work tirelessly not only to serve their communities, but also to raise the funds needed to strengthen their services."
"Thank you to everyone who has supported these fundraising efforts. Every contribution helps ensure our emergency service volunteers have the equipment and facilities they need to continue keeping local communities safe."
Warneet Blind Bight Fire Brigade will receive $148,000 for an ultra-light tanker.
Three groups in South Gippsland were also successful with Loch CFA Fire and Rescue receiving $80,000 for a rescue support vehicle, Venus Bay Surf Life Saving Club receiving $19,914 for rescue equipment and Kongwak Fire Brigade receiving $2,612 for a portable generator.
Ms Crugnale said the grants recognised the contribution volunteers made during emergencies and throughout their communities.
"We are incredibly fortunate to have such dedicated emergency service volunteers across Bass. Whether responding to emergencies, supporting local events or helping communities recover after difficult times, they make an extraordinary contribution. This funding is about backing those volunteers and ensuring they have the tools and resources they need to continue serving our communities."
The state government said this year's VESEP round was the largest in the program's history.
Under VESEP the state government contributes $2 for every $1 raised locally with grants supporting vehicles, equipment, technology and minor facility upgrades.
