The Andrews Labor Government has invested $321,667 in the Kalkallo CFA Fire Brigade to provide essential an vehicle.

Member for Yuroke Ros Spence today announced Kalkallo Fire Brigade would receive funding to purchase a brand new medium tanker.

The new tanker is one of 303 grants sharing in more than $14.3 million in funding under the government’s 2020-21 Volunteer Emergency Services Equipment Program (VESEP).

Under the program, the Government matches every $1 paid by volunteer groups with a $2 co-contribution up to $150,000 per project.

The annual grants program gives volunteer emergency service groups the opportunity to apply for grants of up to $150,000 to purchase equipment including vehicles, trucks, tankers, watercraft and trailers, and for minor improvements including refurbishments and amenities, such as kitchens and change rooms.

Other operational equipment that can be funded includes chainsaws, generators, quick fill pumps and inflatable rescue boats and engines.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Emergency Services Jaclyn Symes

“It’s going to be another busy summer season for our emergency service volunteers. That’s why we’re helping to give them the equipment they need to continue doing what they do best – keeping Victorians safe.”

“These grants have been going strong since they were first set up twenty years ago – communities will continue to proudly contribute to local fundraising efforts, but we want to help reduce that task and demonstrate that we’ll always support our selfless volunteers.”

Quotes attributable to Member for Yuroke Ros Spence

“The new medium-tanker for the Kalkallo Fire Brigrade will give our volunteers the equipment needed to effectively carry out their duties.”

“The Volunteer Emergency Services Equipment Program is an important annual program providing a critical boost to local volunteer units to ensure their equipment and facilities are up-to-date.”