$1.3 million ICC improves emergency preparedness in North East Victoria
Emergency services agencies in North East Victoria are now able to better co-ordinate their responses to emergencies with the opening of a $1.3 million Level 3 Incident Control Centre (ICC) in Shepparton.
Deputy Premier and Minister for Emergency Services Peter Ryan today joined Member for Shepparton Jeanette Powell to officially open the upgraded facility which gives emergency services personnel access to improved communications and information technology.
"This ICC has the capacity to handle level 3 incidents which are the most complex and potentially damaging emergencies," Mr Ryan said.
"The facility is a permanent base where the Country Fire Authority (CFA), Department of Sustainability and Environment (DSE), Victoria Police and State Emergency Services staff operate in the event of emergencies."
Mr Ryan said upgrades to the Shepparton ICC, including a building extension, were completed in December 2011, which ensured the facility had been up and running during the floods earlier this year.
"The upgrades allowed incident controllers to provide the latest maps, weather and warnings information to men and women on the frontline," Mr Ryan said.
"On behalf of all Victorians I would like to take the opportunity to thank our local emergency agencies for their commitment and hard work during the flood event early this year."
During the floods a multi-agency Incident Management Team was based at the ICC on a 24-hour basis for 14 days to co-ordinate an emergency response throughout the Goulburn Valley.
Member for Shepparton Jeanette Powell said the Shepparton ICC would also be used by the CFA to train personnel and work with communities to better prepare for emergencies.
"Our emergency services play a crucial role in protecting lives and property and the Victorian Coalition Government is proud to support these men and women," Mrs Powell said.
The CFA contributed $335,000 towards the refurbishment, with the building owner funding the remainder of the $1.38 million project.
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