The growing Bannockburn community will be better protected in times of need with a brand new Victoria State Emergency Services (VICSES) headquarters thanks to the Allan Labor Government.
Minister for Emergency Services Vicki Ward this week joined volunteers to announce the site of the new VICSES Bannockburn unit and thank members for their hard work.
Located at 18 Dann Road, the new site will feature dedicated training spaces and wellbeing areas. It will also provide better on-site storage for vehicles and equipment - which will go a long way in helping them respond to emergencies and attract more volunteers.
As part of modernising the facilities the unit will feature environmentally sustainable materials, including solar panels and water recycling.
Design of the new station is underway, with a construction tender expected to be released in the middle of the year.
The Labor Government is supporting VICSES units through a $26 million investment to ensure Victorian communities are well supported in an emergency.
The Bannockburn Unit currently has 30 operational members and since the unit formed in 1977, volunteers have responded to 3,000 requests for assistance.
The unit has played a critical role in significant events across Victoria, including the Ash Wednesday fires and the 2010-11 floods. The unit has also assisted interstate, supporting NSW volunteers during the 2022 floods in Sydney and Lismore.
As stated by Minister for Emergency Services Vicki Ward
"For almost 48 years Bannockburn Unit volunteers have turned out for the community. This new facility will ensure they have what they need for years to come and help attract more volunteers."
As stated by Member for Geelong Christine Couzens
"The Bannockburn unit is not just a building, it's a lifeline for our community and this new facility will enhance our preparedness and response capabilities in times of crisis."
As stated by Acting Chief Officer of VICSES Alistair Drayton
"Our VICSES Bannockburn Unit volunteers play a vital role in supporting their community - they are incredibly hard working, dedicated and highly trained. We look forward to being able to welcome more community members to the unit to join as volunteers and support their community during times of emergency."
