East Gippsland’s emergency service organisations are being encouraged to repeat their highly successful efforts from last year by again applying for funding through the Volunteer Emergency Services Equipment Program (VESEP).
Gippsland East Nationals MP, Tim Bull said the program was now open to the Country Fire Authority, Victoria State Emergency Service, Life Saving Victoria and Australian Volunteer Coastguard.
“Last year eleven grants totalling $640,919 were shared amongst Country Fire Authority, State Emergency Service and Surf Life Saving volunteer services with Cowwarr, Omeo and Marlo CFA brigades each receiving $118,500 for new 4 X 4 ultralight tankers,” said Mr Bull.
“Other CFA brigades / groups whose applications were successful included Johnsonville, Mount Delegate and Sarsfield.
“Lakes Entrance and Mallacoota Surf Life Saving Clubs and the Maffra and Orbost Units of the State Emergency Service were also rewarded for their efforts.
“Our emergency services volunteers do a wonderful job in protecting the community and these grants will help to ensure that when they are performing their roles, they have the equipment and facilities to do the job.
“The VESEP grants can be used to fund operational equipment, including new vehicles, trucks, light and medium tankers, trailers, watercraft, vessels and engines, or funding can be put towards minor building improvements”, said Mr Bull.
VESEP funding will contribute $2 for every $1 of funding from the local volunteer group up to a maximum of $150,000.00 excluding GST.
For more information about the VESEP and to find out how to apply for a grant, visit emv.vic.gov.au/vesep
