By CASEY NEILL
THE Narre Warren SES Unit will buy much-needed equipment with a $15,000 State Government grant.
It will use the Volunteer Emergency Services Equipment Program (VESEP) cash for back-up power supply to the unit’s headquarters during emergencies.
The generators, portable lighting, tools, a ladder and storage will also ensure volunteers can respond more quickly and efficiently to requests for assistance.
The unit last year responded to more than 650 requests for assistance over more than 400 square kilometres and 390,000 residents.
Narre Warren SES Unit deputy controller Tim Howell said the grant would ensure his team could continue to operate and respond to calls for help when its headquarters loses power.
“Our community will also benefit as other emergency services providers can now rely upon using our local headquarters as a command area if there is a power outage during major emergencies,” he said.
Narre Warren South MP Judith Graley said SES equipment was often very expensive and the grant would reduce the large financial burden on volunteers.
“I have seen first-hand the outstanding work that the Narre Warren SES Unit does each and every day,” she said.
“I am so very pleased that we can provide the support and assistance they need to keep doing such an extraordinary job.”
The Narre Warren SES will hold 10th anniversary celebrations from 6pm on Saturday 19 September at Amberlee Receptions in Cranbourne.
For more information and tickets, call Tim on 0427 777 349 or email narrewarren@ses.vic.gov.au
