There was a large turnout of the Buchan community as Member for Gippsland East, Tim Bull, officially opened the new joint CFA and SES facility.
Member for Gippsland East, Tim Bull, has today officially opened a new $1.61 million co-located CFA fire station and SES station at Buchan in East Gippsland.
Mr Bull said the $1.61 million facility would increase the capacity of SES and CFA to protect the community.
“The new facility forms part of the Coalition Government’s $125 million commitment to build or upgrade 250 CFA stations across the state, and with more than 245 stations now complete, we are well on track to deliver our commitment by the end of this month,” Mr Bull said.
“A new emergency services hub will enhance the collaboration and coordination between the SES and CFA during emergencies and bolster community protection for our region.
”It will provide CFA and SES members with modern facilities and the latest specialist equipment and resources, and ensure a higher level of protection to volunteers who perform a critical role responding to fires and other emergencies.
“The Coalition Government is proud to support CFA and SES members by providing them with the facilities and equipment they need to save lives and protect property, Mr Bull said.”
The $1.61 million facility includes two double-bay truck rooms housing SES vehicles on one side and CFA vehicles on the other. Shared facilities include a communications room, a kitchen, meeting rooms and new amenities.
“This is a significant investment which will provide an excellent service to the community of Buchan and surrounds for many years to come.”
Buchan SES currently has 32 members, with the unit attending on average 50 incidents a year, while Buchan CFA has 25 members, who attend about 25 incidents each year and also provide support across Victoria and Interstate as needed.
Mr Bull said construction of the CFA/ SES facility replaces two separate facilities, and allows the SES and CFA to provide an all-hazards response right from the centre of Buchan.
“The improved facilities will streamline and enhance the already-strong relationship between both emergency services and strengthen their relationships with the community,” Mr Bull said.
Mr Bull said emergency services volunteers are the backbone of Victoria’s emergency response.
“This financial year the CFA Budget is $457 million, $58 million more than when Labor left office in 2010. The 2014-15 SES Budget is more than $50 million,” Mr Bull said.
“Only a Coalition Government will ensure our emergency services are equipped with the tools and resources they need to keep Victorians safe.”
