Melton State Emergency Service crews and volunteers are set to have a new base that would service the Caroline Springs and Plumpton area.
The project was announced as part of the state government’s $34.3 million State Emergency Services funding package for new trucks, boats and trailers and to modernise buildings.
Previously, councils and the state government funded SES services jointly, but an additional $14.9 million which was allocated in the state budget earlier this year will now cover operational costs.
Section leader Karl Sass said a new unit in the eastern corridor of Melton’s response area has been a long time coming.
“Volunteers of the Melton SES unit will continue to provide the highest level of response capability to the Caroline Springs and surrounding communities, as we always have, until the new base is operational,” he said.
“As the population and number of incidents the Melton SES responds to continues to grow, the Melton SES will soon be commencing a major recruit drive for volunteers in a wide range of operational and supporting roles.
“One of the challenges is keeping up with population growth and having a second base will be crucial in improving response times.”
Mr Sass said about a third of the Melton SES members come from the eastern corridor and more are welcome.
Emergency Services Minister James Merlino said the service is on track to record its second busiest year ever with volunteers responding to more than 38,000 requests for help.
“From new buildings to new trucks, this funding will help the men and women who help us – often in the worst of times.”
