A new headquarters will be built for one of the state’s busiest Victoria State Emergency Services units, thanks to funding from the Andrews Labor Government.
Minister for Emergency Services James Merlino visited Emerald today to announce the Emerald SES unit will relocate to a new, fit-for-purpose site on Belgrave-Gembrook Rd.
Construction of the building is being funded by a $1.8 million allocation in the 2017-18 Victorian Budget.
Preliminary works will start in September, with construction set to be completed by mid-2019. The new building will replace the existing unit on Old Gembrook Rd.
Mr Merlino said the current VICSES site will be retained for community use, as it will be returned to the Cardinia Shire Council once the new unit opens.
Emerald SES volunteers are among the most active in Victoria, responding to more than 650 requests for assistance in the past 12 months.
They have been asking for better facilities in order to continue their great work, but the topography of the existing property made it impossible to build a larger unit there.
The Labor Government committed a total of $34.3 million in the 2017-18 budget to support VICSES volunteers, as well as fund new buildings, trucks, boats and trailers.
New units are also being established in Caroline Springs/Plumpton, Clyde, Craigieburn North, Cranbourne, Officer and Point Cook.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Emergency Services James Merlino
“Emerald SES volunteers are some of the busiest in the state, responding to hundreds of call-outs every year in Emerald and nearby towns and suburbs.”
“The acquisition of land on Belgrave-Gembrook Rd will pave the way for a fit-for-purpose site, allowing members to respond to incidents more quickly and store all of their vehicles and equipment.”
Quotes attributable to VICSES Chief Executive Officer Stephen Griffin
“The new unit will increase the presence of Victoria State Emergency Service (VICSES) and our volunteer connection to the Emerald community.”
“This site will be owned by VICSES, which provides the Emerald volunteers and community with certainty for the future.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020