SES volunteers in Castlemaine will receive a new rescue truck thanks to the Allan Labor Government’s Volunteer Emergency Services Equipment Program (VESEP).

Member for Bendigo West Maree Edwards MP today visited Castlemaine SES to announce $235,767 as part of the most recent VESEP round, which will fund a new Medium Rescue Truck (MRT) 4WD replacing their 2012 Mercedes Sprinter (light rescue).

The primary purpose of the MRT 4WD is to transport VICSES members and equipment during flood, storm, and road, air, industrial and rail rescue events in remote and/or difficult to access locations.

The truck can transport five passengers and can carry VICSES equipment weighing up to
1500kg.

This investment adds to the $117,883 raised by the unit towards the vehicle.

Castlemaine SES has also just received a secondary set of road rescue tools from TAC to be carried on their Rescue Support vehicle. This equipment will make it easier for the unit to work on two crashed vehicles simultaneously.

VESEP is an annual grants program that helps Victorian emergency services volunteer groups purchase essential equipment or make facility improvements so they can strengthen and support their vital work.

Volunteer groups can apply for grants of up to $250,000 – an increase of $100,000 from the previous maximum – with the Government contributing $2 for every $1 raised by the local volunteer group.

Thanks to the Emergency Services and Volunteers Fund, VESEP funding will double over the next four years, with an additional $62 million invested to support volunteers. Every dollar raised through the Fund goes directly to emergency and disaster recovery services.

Over the past decade, the Allan Labor Government has invested more than $168 million in VESEP grants, ensuring volunteers have the resources they need to protect Victorians.

A full list of the latest VESEP grants is available at emv.vic.gov.au/vesep