The Wangaratta community will be better serviced and protected during an emergency thanks to a new state-of-the-art VICSES hub funded by the Andrews Labor Government.
Minister for Emergency Services Jaclyn Symes today marked the official opening of the new VICSES Wangaratta Unit, part of an emergency services precinct that includes a co-located FRV/CFA fire station and is directly opposite Wangaratta police station.
The new unit includes a Divisional Control Point, which coordinates major response activities with other emergency services agencies – making it easier for everyone to work together in times of urgency.
Additional features include four motor bays, a turnout area, a kitchen, training and operations room, offices, communications, and administrative areas.
The unit has 26 active volunteers who responded to more than 148 requests for assistance between July 2020 and June 2021 and led the emergency services response to major flooding in the region in previous years.
The new facility also reflects VICSES’ commitment and dedication to the local community while supporting the retention and recruitment of new volunteers.
The Labor Government has invested more than $125 million to build and upgrade VICSES facilities over the past five State Budgets to ensure the state’s emergency services volunteers are equipped with the resources needed to support Victorian communities.
These projects are delivered on behalf of the government by the Emergency Services Infrastructure Authority, part of the Community Safety Building Authority.
As stated by Minister for Emergency Services Jaclyn Symes
“Time and time again, our VICSES volunteers have gone above and beyond to respond to emergencies and keep people safe – because they don’t just serve the community, they’re part of it.”
“This new unit will support the selfless hard work VICSES does every day. We’ll always back our volunteers and help them to continue this important work keeping locals safe.”
