General News
8 December, 2023
Renovations funded for C'down station
CAMPERDOWN is one of many Country Fire Authority (CFA) brigades that have received funding as part of a recent announcement.
The Victorian Government’s Volunteer Emergency Services Equipment Program (VESEP) funding was announced recently by the Minister for Emergency Services Jacyln Symes.
Nearly $11 million in grant funding will be handed over to CFA brigades to purchase new equipment to help protect their communities.
For the Camperdown CFA brigade, this means the fire station will be seeing some renovations to accommodate the growing number and diversity of volunteers.
Upcoming works will include:
Improvements to the male and female toilet facilities;
Showers;
A new administration office towards the front of the station;
Works to the kitchen area;
Extensions to the changing rooms to provide privacy for female brigade members; and
A separate washroom and cleaning space for turn-outs.
The brigade also asked for funding to move its hose-drying tower for better accessibility.
Camperdown CFA received $100,000 to go towards the renovations, with the brigade to contribute $65,000.
Secretary, treasurer and communications officer Bernie Sinnott said the building, which was purpose built for the CFA back in 1987, was due for improvements.
“We’re very happy that the application for a grant from the Volunteer Emergency Services Equipment Program for the fire station to provide better facilities, especially for our female members, was successful,” he said.
“They have had a lack of privacy when turning out to fires.
“An extension to the administration area would be much appreciated as well, because it would allow us to upgrade our showers and toilet for all members when they come back from incidents.
“Sometimes, they’re subject to asbestos, plastic, smells and toxins, and we need an area to be able to tidy up when we’re finished at the incident.”
CFA chief officer Jason Heffernan said VESEP grants help provide brigades with significant funding for life-saving equipment.
“This program provides $2 for every $1 of funding from the brigade and helps with the purchase of equipment such as vehicles, trucks, tankers, watercraft, trailers, and can also include minor facility improvements,” he said.
“The contribution from the government towards equipment means brigades like Harcourt have a great incentive to fundraise in their communities and apply for a VESEP grant.
“There are also Special Access Grants available to provide a further financial boost for brigades that face challenges with fundraising.”