Local community gives boost to VICSES Port Fairy Unit fleet
The Victoria State Emergency Service (VICSES) Port Fairy Unit will now be able to accelerate the purchase of a new vehicle to add to its growing fleet, after being awarded a $50,000 grant from the Port Fairy and District Community Bank.
Announced as part of the local bank's 10th birthday celebrations earlier this week, the grant will aid the purchase of a new four-wheel drive utility, to help boost the local unit's turnout capability as demand for emergency assistance increases in the local area.
The VICSES Port Fairy Unit is currently home to both a light and heavy rescue truck, in addition to an operational twin cab support vehicle and an all-terrain vehicle. The purchase of this new vehicle is set to bolster the unit’s ability to transport personnel and haul trailers throughout the local response area.
The grant rounds out a busy financial year for VICSES Port Fairy Unit, which officially opened its brand-new state-of-the-art headquarters in October last year.
With more than 20 members, VICSES Port Fairy Unit volunteers service Moyne Shire’s largest population base, and responds to more than 120 requests for assistance (RFAs) on average each year.
In the last 12 months, unit volunteers have received nearly 150 RFAs, including 66 relating to downed trees, 29 regarding building damage, and assisted their emergency service partner agencies on 14 occasions.
The unit is also Road Crash Rescue (RCR) certified and has supported its community at six road crashes during that same period.
Celebrating its 44th birthday this year, the VICSES Port Fairy Unit’s longstanding commitment to educating its community also continued this financial year, with volunteers attending more than 20 community engagement events to spread awareness around the role of VICSES.
Quotes attributable to Hannah Morris, VICSES Port Fairy Unit Controller
“Receiving this grant has been a fantastic surprise for all involved with VICSES Port Fairy Unit.
“We pride ourselves on our ability to support our community in challenging times, and this generous funding will only improve our volunteers’ capacity to respond to emergencies.
“Our deepest thanks go to Port Fairy & District Community Bank, and we appreciate the ongoing support we receive from our community.”
