Nelson’s bushfire defences have received a major boost with the opening of a $200,000 multi-purpose facility and the handover of a new $92,000 two-seater tanker.
Member for Western Victoria, Gayle Tierney MP opened the facility and handed over the keys to the two-seater tanker today.
“The State Government values the important work Victoria’s emergency services do and is committed to ensuring they have the necessary resources to carry out this important work,” Ms Tierney said.
“These new measures will help the local brigade better plan for, and respond to, a bushfire emergency, and will help Nelson continue its strong emergency services history.”
The multi-purpose facility is equipped with training area, protective equipment room and a meeting room with audio-visual equipment and kitchen facilities.
The four-wheel drive tanker has a 400-litre capacity, and is fitted with two radios to support the brigade on the fire ground. It was purchased through the Community Safety Emergency Support Fund.
“This four-wheel drive vehicle is faster and more manoeuvrable in rugged terrain, and will enable the brigade to respond more effectively to emergencies on the outskirts of Nelson,” Ms Tierney said.
Ms Tierney also announced that CFA had endorsed funding for a bore and tank to be installed at the facility.
“This will allow fire-fighting vehicles to be filled quickly in the event of a rapidly developing emergency,” Ms Tierney said.
“These measures will allow Nelson CFA to continue to protect the local community.”
Emergency Services Minister Bob Cameron said Nelson had been identified as one of 52 Victorian communities most at risk from bushfire this season.
“The State Government has been working with local authorities to develop a Township Protection Plan for Nelson, as part of a $1.9m commitment to protect Victoria’s most vulnerable communities,” Mr Cameron said.
“And in recognition of the work Victoria’s emergency services do, and to boost preparation for the coming fire season, the State Government invested $215.5 million in a record emergency services budget this year.
“We have committed $986 million towards fire fighting and reconstruction efforts.
“I recently launched a $3.1 million State Government campaign – Vital, Valued, Volunteers – to support and recognise the work of emergency services and other volunteers.
“During Fire Action Week, the Government made a series of announcements in preparation for the fire season, which is shaping up to be every bit as bad or worse than the last.
“These included a new Household Bushfire Self-Assessment Tool, a new national Fire Danger Rating system, and the upgrade of Incident Control Centres across the state.” Mr Cameron said.