Image12

Media Releases

RECORD BOOST TO FUND NEW EQUIPMENT FOR EMERGENCY SERVICES VOLUNTEERS

Friday, May 17, 2013

RECORD BOOST TO FUND TRUCKS, TANKERS AND NEW EQUIPMENT FOR EMERGENCY SERVICES VOLUNTEERS

Member for Benalla, Bill Sykes today encouraged local emergency services groups to apply for grants of up to $100,000 under the Victorian Coalition Government’s multi-million dollar program for new operational equipment.
Dr Sykes said the Coalition was investing a record $12.23 million to ensure emergency services volunteers have the tools they need to do their job protecting communities.
Under the Volunteer Emergency Services Equipment Program (VESEP), grants of up to $100,000 will go to emergency services groups for operational equipment such as vehicles, trucks, tankers, watercraft, trailers and to make minor facility improvements.
Many CFA groups throughout the Benalla Electorate have previously benefitted from VESEP funding. Some of the funded items and projects include amenity upgrades at Bright, Goomalibee, Booroolite and Maindample, a quick fill pump at Mudgegonga, command vehicle at Mansfield, medium tanker at Avenel, chainsaw and floating pump at Yarck, landcruiser at Benalla and light tanker at Baddaginnie.
The Coalition Government contributes $2 for every $1 contributed by volunteers from organisations such as the Australian Volunteer Coast Guard Association, CFA, Life Saving Victoria, VICSES, or any eligible volunteer emergency services groups.
Since 2011, the Coalition Government has paid $23.55 million towards new equipment for 457 emergency services groups under this program.
Dr Sykes said the VESEP was a partnership between the Coalition Government and communities to help emergency services volunteer groups purchase equipment that supports the ongoing protection and safety of all Victorians.
“Our emergency services volunteers are the backbone of Victoria’s emergency response so we want to ensure they have the latest equipment available to help them carry out their vital work.”
Dr Sykes said with this year’s record boost, it was anticipated even more equipment would be delivered to volunteer groups.
“We will continue to ensure our emergency services volunteers are better equipped to respond safely and effectively to emergencies, whether it be floods, storms or bushfires.”
For more information go to www.justice.vic.gov.au or email vesep@justice.vic.gov.au

Comments (0) | Trackbacks (0) | Permalink

WORLD-CLASS DIGITAL RADIO SERVICE FOR REGIONAL BRIGADES

Friday, May 10, 2013
Member for Benalla, Bill Sykes today welcomed the Victorian Government signing a contract with Telstra for a world-class digital radio dispatch service to upgrade and improve radio communications for fire brigades across regional Victoria.
“Currently, 45 per cent of CFA’s rural brigades do not have direct radio communications with the Emergency Services Telecommunications Authority (ESTA), and rely on base station operators to relay urgent incident messages,” Dr Sykes said.
“This is an issue which has been raised with me by various CFA brigades, in particular in areas around Mudgegonga, Ovens and Kiewa Valleys.
“The Regional Radio Dispatch Service will allow brigades to speak directly from the fire ground with emergency call centre operators at the three State Emergency Communication Centres, reducing the risk of communication failures and improving safety for both CFA members and the public.
“It will also improve communication between agencies such as Victoria Police and Ambulance Victoria and ensure a consistent approach for the dispatch of CFA brigades and Vic SES units.
“The service will also introduce better efficiency by eliminating the need for firefighters to relay messages from the base through to incident control.
“Improving CFA communications was a key recommendation of the Victorian Bushfire Royal Commission.
“The upgrade from an analogue to a digital radio service is an important step in delivering on this recommendation, as this service will improve clarity in radio communications and reduce signal black spots,” Dr Sykes said.
The total cost of this project is $66.24 million over the seven years of the contract.
“I believe this contract is a big step forward towards providing clear and reliable communications for our firefighters, who work tirelessly to protect lives and property in our state,” Dr Sykes said.
The new service is due to be implemented by June 2014 – ensuring every regional brigade is able to access clear and reliable radio communications, no matter where their location.
The Hume, Grampians and Loddon Mallee CFA operational districts will be the first to receive the new technology.
Dr Sykes said the Coalition Government was proud of the vital work performed by CFA, one of the world’s largest volunteer organisations with more than 60,000 members – 98 per cent volunteers.
“The Coalition Government is proud to support CFA firefighters by providing them with the facilities and equipment they need to save lives and property,” Dr Sykes said.

Comments (0) | Trackbacks (0) | Permalink

SYKES OPENS NEW TAMINICK/NORTH WINTON FIRE STATION

Monday, November 26, 2012
Taminick and North Winton fire brigade has celebrated the opening of its new fire station by also recognising the history of long and dedicated service by its members.
Representing the Minister for Police and Emergency Services Peter Ryan, Member for Benalla Bill Sykes said the new fire station would mean the Taminick and North Winton fire brigade was better equipped to deal with the threat of fire in the local area.
“Taminick and North Winton play an important role in protecting lives and property in a beautiful part of regional Victoria known for its wineries and agricultural enterprises. As a gateway to Victoria’s high country, the area’s natural attractions make this part of north east Victoria a popular destination for tourists,” Mr Sykes said.
“Our local CFA volunteers do a fantastic job helping to protect the safety of their local communities and visitors alike.
“The modern fire station is important recognition of the crucial role played by the brigade’s 27 members, some who have served as emergency services volunteers for as long as 45 years.
“Previously the local CFA operated out of an old shed, which had been in use for 40 years, didn’t allow for large meetings and even had a BYO chair policy.”
“The $360,000 station is modern and comfortable with meeting and office facilities, plenty of storage for the brigade’s firefighting vehicles and equipment and plenty of chairs too.
“Upgrading this fire station is an important investment in the safety of the community around Taminick, North Winton and the Benalla region.”
The Taminick and North Winton brigade attends around 11 incidents each year and have helped with other significant fires campaigns, including the recent Lake Mokoan fire and Black Saturday bushfires.
Seventeen members of the brigade were presented with awards for service to the brigade, including five-year certificates, through to 45 year awards.
The Minister for Police and Emergency Services, Peter Ryan said CFA members were leaders in Victorian communities, due to their commitment to Victoria’s emergency services.
“As one of the world’s largest emergency services organisations, CFA draws its strengthen from the dedication and bravery of its 60,000 members – 98 per cent of them volunteers,” Mr Ryan said.
“In 2012-13, the Victorian Government has allocated almost $57 million to emergency services, including $22.9 million to build or upgrade rural fire stations across the state.”
“The Victorian Government is proud to support its volunteers by providing them with the facilities and equipment they need to save lives and property.”

Comments (0) | Trackbacks (0) | Permalink

OFFICIAL OPENING OF GOUGHS BAY-HOWES CREEK FIRE STATION

Monday, October 29, 2012
The new Goughs Bay-Howes Creek fire station was officially opened today and will help the brigade continue to serve the area’s growing population well into the future.
Representing the Minister for Police and Emergency Services Peter Ryan, the Member for Benalla Bill Sykes said the new facility cost more than $400,000 to build.
“The new station is equipped with two engine bays, meeting room, amenities and a water tank.
“It replaces a 24 year-old shed and will cater for the brigade’s and the local community’s current and future needs,” he said.
“Situated next to three roads leading to all the brigade’s response areas, the new station will also improve turnout times for the brigade.”
Dr Sykes said the new Goughs Bay-Howes Creek fire station would provide a new, modern working environment for the brigade’s volunteers.
“The Goughs Bay–Howes Creek Rural Fire Brigade was formed in 1936 and its 28 current members attend a range of incidents annually ranging from bushfires to flood relief,” he said.
“I’d like to thank all Goughs Bay-Howes Creek members for their hard work and efforts keeping their local community safe.”
Mr Ryan said the State Government was committed to ensuring Victoria’s emergency services have the facilities and equipment to carry out their important role in the community.
“Local agencies like CFA Goughs Bay-Howes Creek brigade are the backbone of Victoria’s emergency service response,” he said.
“In 2012-13, the Victorian Government has allocated almost $57 million to emergency services, including $22.9 million to build or upgrade rural fire stations across the state.”
Dr Sykes concluded, “It is timely to remind residents that now is the time to prepare for the fire season ahead by reviewing their bushfire survival plans and cleaning up fire hazards around properties.”

Comments (540) | Trackbacks (0) | Permalink

MIEPOLL FIRE BRIGADE'S LONG SERVICE CELEBRATED

Monday, October 15, 2012
Miepoll fire brigade has celebrated its rich history today with the opening of a new $220,000 fire station and long service medals being presented to many of its dedicated members and volunteers.
Representing the Minister for Police and Emergency Services Peter Ryan, Member for Benalla Bill Sykes said the new station would make sure the brigade was well equipped to meet future fire threats.
He said it was an honour to meet with brigade members, some who have been part of Victoria’s emergency services for as long as 55 years.
“The Miepoll fire brigade has been part of the Goulburn region for nearly 95 years and it is fitting that as we celebrate the long service of its members, we also unveil a brand new fire station,” Dr Sykes said.
“The new fire station is an important investment in the safety of the Miepoll community and will mean the local CFA is better equipped to respond to fire threats and other emergencies.
“The $220,000 station provides a modern and safe working environment with a workshop area, storage for firefighting gear and equipment, water tanks to fill the brigade’s tanker, and also includes solar power to help reduce its running costs.
“The brigade is active in fire campaigns and was heavily involved in the Kinglake fires on Black Saturday in 2009 as well as fires in 2003 and 2006/07. They are also active undertaking preventative work in the local community, such as putting up fire restriction signs, which have proved very effective.”
Minister Ryan said the CFA’s was one of the world’s largest volunteer organisations with 60,000 members – 98 per cent of whom were volunteers – dedicated to protecting lives and property.
“The CFA draws its strength from the dedication, professionalism and bravery of its volunteers, and in turn, the Victorian government seeks to provide them with the equipment, training and resources they need to protect their communities,” Mr Ryan said.
“Local agencies such as Miepoll CFA are the backbone of Victoria’s emergency service response.
“In 2012-13, the Victorian Government has allocated almost $57 million to emergency services, including $22.9 million to build or upgrade rural fire stations across the state.”

Comments (135) | Trackbacks (0) | Permalink

STANLEY FIRE FIGHTERS' TRIBUTE LAUNCHED

Monday, July 30, 2012
Stanley’s bushfire memorial to local fire fighters and emergency services workers will stand for years to come as a testament to the resilience of the local community, Member for Benalla Dr Bill Sykes said today.
Unveiling the Stanley Fire Fighters’ Tribute on behalf of Deputy Premier and Minister for Regional and Rural Development Peter Ryan, Dr Sykes said all levels of government were working together to help communities recover from the 2009 Victorian bushfires.
“Through the $10 million joint State/Commonwealth Community Recovery Fund, $2.5 million was set aside for around 50 bushfire memorials and a number of commemorative events to help Victoria’s bushfire-affected communities heal,” Dr Sykes said.
“After extensive consultation, the Stanley community decided to use their funding to honour the local fire fighters and emergency services workers who battled long and hard to contain the Black Saturday bushfires.”
Dr Sykes said the memorial would be an enduring reminder of the courage and dedication of the Stanley fire fighters and emergency services worker and a place for the community reflect on the experiences of Black Saturday.
“I congratulate the Indigo Shire Council, the Stanley community, the designers and fabricator on their fitting tribute to those in our community who work around the clock protecting others,” Dr Sykes said.
“All materials used in the Stanley Fire Fighters’ Tribute have been sourced locally and reflect the surrounding landscape. Deciduous trees are from the local grower, ironwork is by the local blacksmith and the timber seating is from fallen trees.”
Member for Benambra, Bill Tilley said, “This memorial is a wonderful way for the Victorian Coalition Government to acknowledge communities affected by the 2009 bushfires and to recognise the significant contribution of all fire fighters and emergency service workers.”
Deputy Premier and Minister for Regional and Rural Development Peter Ryan said bushfire-affected communities were recovering from the devastating events of 2009 in their own way.
“Across Victoria’s bushfire-affected communities, significant local memorials like the Stanley Fire Fighters’ Tribute are being created,” Mr Ryan said.
Mr Ryan said the Coalition Government’s $79,600 grant from the Community Recovery Fund was allocated to Indigo Shire Council to build the Stanley bushfire memorial as well as another memorial at the Bruarong Public Hall.
“May the local tributes and all other bushfire memorials established by affected communities across the Victoria continue to remind us of the brave and selfless efforts of others in the face of adversity,” Mr Ryan said.

Comments (0) | Trackbacks (0) | Permalink

$60,000 FOR BOHO FIRE STATION COMMUNITY SPACE

Monday, July 30, 2012
A project to extend the new CFA shed at Boho to include a multi-use community meeting place is being supported with $60,000 in Victorian Coalition Government funding, Member for Benalla, Bill Sykes said today.
Dr Sykes said the Boho Fire Station - Multi Use Community Meeting Space Extension project would address an identified gap in facilities in this rural community because there was currently no community facility or hall in Boho.
“Mutli-use community space is a priority and will enable the community vision of a shared meeting facility to become a reality for the Boho community,” Dr Sykes said.
“The project will extend the standard shed by 53 square metres to include a meeting room area and an undercover veranda with concrete slab.”
Dr Sykes said the CFA shed extension was a significant project for the Boho CFA and broader community.
He acknowledged the commitment of local community and the Boho CFA, particularly captain Gary Washusen and secretary Angus Howell to secure this funding.
“This project will ensure the Boho community can come together to participate in a range of activities and events well into the future,” he said.
“The project represents value for money by providing quality facilities for the local community, negating the need to go elsewhere for meetings and functions.
“The Boho community has worked hard to plan and raise funds for this multi use community space extension.
“Local contractors, volunteers and tradespeople will be used where possible, ensuring that the local community benefits economically from the project.”
Captain of the Boho Rural Fire Brigade, Gary Washusen said that the Boho Brigade and wider community is excited and delighted to learn that the Victorian Government is prepared to contribute funding towards the multi purpose facility.
“The Boho Brigade has raised a contribution of $20,000 which will be combined with the government grant to enable the CFA to construct the meeting room as part of the overall project.
“The new space will be used by a range of people and organisations in the area as well as providing much needed training space for the brigade and its 48 trained volunteer fire fighters.”
Mr Washusen said that he believed the facility will assist the brigade in furthering its fire fighting capacity as well as encouraging further community support which is essential in continuing to maintain community protection.
Deputy Premier and Minister for Rural and Regional Development, Mr Ryan said Victorian Government funding for the Boho Fire Station - Multi Use Community Meeting Space Extension project would be provided to Boho Rural Fire Brigade CFA through the $1 billion Regional Growth Fund’s Putting Locals First Program.
“Putting Locals First is a $100 million initiative that enables regional communities to devise and deliver service and infrastructure responses that reflect local priorities,” Mr Ryan said.
“It is supporting stronger and more sustainable regional communities by building their capacity to drive development in their region.”
Mr Ryan said the Boho Fire Station - Multi Use Community Meeting Space Extension project was expected to be completed in March 2013.

Comments (0) | Trackbacks (0) | Permalink

MP UNVEILS UPTON HILL COMMUNITY'S NEW CFA FIRE STATION

Saturday, December 03, 2011
The Upton Hill community today welcomed the completion of the new purpose-built fire station, as part of the State Government’s commitment to improve community safety.
Representing Deputy Premier and Minister for Police and Emergency Services Peter Ryan, Member for Benalla Bill Sykes today officially opened the new station and said the $391,000 Upton Hill fire station would cater for the brigade’s current and future needs.
“The new Upton Hill fire station will replace the original 26 year-old station with a modern base of operations, greatly improved facilities including a brigade office, storerooms, toilets, water tanks to fill tankers, protective clothing racks and a workshop facility,” said Dr Sykes.
“The new station accommodates the brigade’s fire truck and trailer unit and an extra bay provides a safer working environment which will also allow for any future expansion for the brigade.”
Dr Sykes said many of Upton Hill’s residents were CFA volunteers and fire safety educators and the unveiling of the brigade Honour Boards would acknowledge Upton Hill brigade members for their outstanding service to CFA and their community.
“The Upton Hill brigade has a great history of commitment to the CFA and in protecting lives and property, including during the north east fires in 2006 and their early response in February 2009 to the Saunders Road fire in Kilmore East and the Kinglake fire,” he said
Dr Sykes said the new station’s facilities would enhance and strengthen the brigade’s relationship with the local community with the inclusion of a community meeting room to engage locals in fire safety awareness, preparation and planning.
“Planning ahead for fire safety can save people from being killed by fire and discussing bushfire plans at your local CFA brigade fire station such as at Upton Hill can be a major step forward for individual and community safety,” he said.
Minister for Police and Emergency Services Peter Ryan said State Government funding would continue to deliver real support to the CFA and Victorians’ safety.
“This Government is committed to building fire stations across Victoria to help ensure essential CFA services in local communities and by investing $65.8 million on 60 new or upgraded CFA stations across Victoria we will see that commitment fulfilled,” he said.
“The State Government is also delivering on its commitment to Victorians’ safety by rolling out a total of 101 new firefighting vehicles this financial year, and is committed to building and upgrading 250 CFA stations across Victoria by November 2014,” Mr Ryan said.
In opening the Upton Hill fire station Dr Sykes also took the opportunity to remind all residents to ‘prepare, act, survive’ ahead of this year’s fire season which is expected to produce potentially dangerous fire situations particularly in grassland areas.

Comments (0) | Trackbacks (0) | Permalink

SYKES OPENS NEW FIRE STATION AT WAHRING

Sunday, November 27, 2011
Member for Benalla, Bill Sykes, representing the Deputy Premier and Minister for Police and Emergency Services, Peter Ryan officially opened the new $211,000 fire station at Wahring today.
Dr Sykes said the new station replaced the original station built in the 1950’s and will enhance community safety and help protect local lives.
“This new station is a big step forward for the safety of the local community and fire prevention in the Strathbogie area,” Dr Sykes said.
“The new station’s much improved facilities include a double bay vehicle room, racks for protective clothing, electronic station doors, map boards and work benches and will help to strengthen the brigade’s relationship with the local community.
“The new station accommodates the Brigade’s fire truck and an extra bay provides a safer working environment which will also allow for any future expansion for the brigade.”
“I am confident that the new station will serve the community well and enable the brigade’s 34 members to better protect property, homes and lives in the event of an emergency as well as providing for the brigade’s future needs,” Dr Sykes said.
Dr Sykes said rural community brigades such as Wahring, which was formed in 1926 and incorporated into a CFA brigade in 1945, were key to the success of CFA and Victoria’s emergency service response.
“CFA gains its strength from its volunteers and their dedication and commitment to protecting Victorian lives. I applaud the work of all CFA volunteers who make such an important contribution to the wellbeing and safety of Victorians,” he said.
The Minister, Peter Ryan said that State Government funding would deliver upgraded fire stations across Victoria and ensure that the CFA continued its critical role for years to come.
“By building new fire stations such as here at Wahring and investing $65.8 million towards 60 new or upgraded CFA stations across Victoria, the State Government is truly delivering on its commitment to support CFA,” he said.
“This commitment will also see the Government deliver 101 new firefighting vehicles this financial year as part of an overall commitment to build and upgrade 250 CFA stations across Victoria by November 2014.”
The funding and construction of the new fire station is part of the State Government’s Rural Fire Station Program.


Comments (11) | Trackbacks (0) | Permalink

SYKES OPENS NEW FIRE STATION AT MARRAWEENY

Friday, November 04, 2011
Marraweeny and Boho South district residents will be better equipped to deal with the threat of fire with a new $214,000 station officially opened at Marraweeny today.
Representing Deputy Premier and Minister for Police and Emergency Services Peter Ryan, Member for Benalla, Bill Sykes said the new facility replaced an outdated station built 52 years ago.
“For the residents of the Marraweeny and Boho South District, this new station represents an investment in community safety,” Dr Sykes said.
“The new building will provide members with a more modern base to work from and will better equip the 63-year-old brigade to continue providing its essential emergency services.”
Dr Sykes said the new station accommodated the brigade’s tanker, with an extra bay for expansion in the future. It also included on-site parking, water tanks to fill tankers, clothing racks and a workshop area.
“I am confident this new station will better cater for the brigade’s future needs and is a big improvement on the old shed. Brigade members built the original station in 1959 which was upgraded in 1970, but was still without electricity and toilet facilities,” Dr Sykes said.
“It will also help this brigade continue its important role in fire prevention and management in the local area, and continue to support surrounding communities as part of the Euroa Group of Brigades.”
Marraweeny Fire Brigade President, Jim Mactier said, “This is a pretty momentous thing for some of us old blokes. I know that at least three people who will be present at the opening will recall back to the early days when we had a slip-on with a furphy tank and no shed.
“When we finally did get a shed it had no power which made re-fuelling and checking equipment during a fire event particularly hard at night time.”
As part of the official opening, 28 Marraweeny Fire Brigade members were presented with service awards – totalling 735 combined years of commitment to CFA.
“This remarkable figure highlights the dedication of this fire brigade and, for this service, we owe our thanks,” Dr Sykes said.
Deputy Premier and Minister for Police and Emergency Services Peter Ryan said CFA members – both volunteers and paid – were leaders in Victorian communities and were dedicated to protecting lives and property.
“Local volunteer agencies such as the Marraweeny Fire Brigade are the backbone of Victoria’s emergency service response,” Mr Ryan said.
“The Coalition Government is investing $65.8 million towards 60 new or upgraded CFA stations and rolling out 101 new firefighting vehicles this financial year alone as part of an overall commitment to build and upgrade 250 CFA stations across Victoria by November 2014.”


Comments (0) | Trackbacks (0) | Permalink

1 2 Next

Recent Posts

Tags

Parks Historical Firewood Collection Adult Education Learn Local Energy tourism Anti-bullying Industry Community Events Volunteers Motorcyclists Winton Raceway Bushfires Youth MACE High Country Libraries Youth Week Higher Education Community Groups Hunting Women Sport & Recreation Liquor Licence Local Heroes Local Government Community Radio Service clubs Small Towns Disability Roads PAEC Disability Services Winton Wetlands Water Management Environment CFA Pests Funding Human Services Small Business Fishing Weeds Social Media Emergency Services Police Family Violence Schools Landcare Drought ANZAC Day Scholarships Wild Dogs Alpine Shire VEAC Education Justice Waminda Veteran Affairs Guides Driver Education Safety Agriculture Animal Welfare Budget Heritage Tidy Towns Health Youth Allowance Snow Country Racing Community Facility Mining Events Multiculturalism Putting Locals First State Forest Angling Boating Flood Scouts Crime Awards Communications Business Voting Consumer Affairs Neighbourhood Houses Culture Public Transport Grants Rural and Regional Development Fire Services Levy Planning Cycling Fire SES Taxi Industry Carers Sustainability Men's Sheds Community Services Insurance Employment Parliament House Housing Seniors Alpine Early Childhood Development Mental Health Conservation Charities Legislation Arts Differential Rates Rail Scouts and Guides

Archive


Contact: Electorate Office: Shop 2, 55 Carrier Street BENALLA 3672. Phone: (03) 5762 2100 Fax: (03) 5762 4478.