Member for Benalla, Bill Sykes today handed over the keys for the new Murchison VICSES Unit heavy rescue truck to support its emergency services operations.
Representing Deputy Premier and Minister for Police and Emergency Services Peter Ryan, Member for Benalla Bill Sykes said the new vehicle would enable the unit to respond more efficiently to emergencies in the local community.
“Murchison is a dedicated Unit with a team comprising 16 volunteer members, who go above and beyond the call of duty to protect life and property,” Dr Sykes said.
While the unit’s previous rescue truck was unable to exceed speeds of 85 kilometres an hour, this state-of-the art replacement provides improved speeds and the additional man space and equipment storage to support a growing team.
“I am delighted to announce that the unit will also shortly be joined by a further four new recruits, who will commence training during the next month.”
Dr Sykes said that the Murchison VICSES Unit had demonstrated exceptional courage and dedication during the January 2011 floods, evacuating residents to higher ground and providing recovery support to the local community.
“The Murchison Unit’s specialised expertise in storm, flood and road rescue enabled them to offer much needed assistance during a very difficult time in the community’s recent history.”
He said members regularly visited schools to educate students and in addition to providing advice on storm and flood preparation at community events, had also attended annual ANZAC dawn services and operated a Driver Reviver site.
Minister Ryan said it was vital that brigades such as Murchison had the best equipment possible to continue their essential work in the local area.
“Local agencies are the backbone of Victoria’s emergency services and the State Government recognises the important role emergency services volunteers play,” Mr Ryan said.
“I applaud Murchison VICSES Unit and its members for their ongoing dedication and commitment, particularly during challenging times.”
He said VICSES had 5,500 dedicated volunteers who between them delivered more than 135,000 volunteer hours across Victoria last year.
“The State Government will continue to support the selfless and important role of our volunteers in responding to all emergencies, including fires, heat waves, floods and storms, or rescuing people in trouble or on the water,” he said.