State boost for CFAs

By Bridget Cook
TWO local CFA units received a boost last week, securing grants to purchase vital equipment.
The State Government announced that the Hampton Park and Berwick CFAs will each receive grants for much-needed equipment.
Hampton Park CFA will use the money to purchase vital equipment for its new Field Command Vehicle – which it purchased last year using funds donated by the community.
The Berwick CFA will receive a grant for a positive pressure ventilation fan and laptop.
Hampton Park CFA second lieutenant Troy Smith said the brigade was thrilled with the funding.
“The vehicle is used to go out and map the front of fire lines and as the strike team leader’s vehicle,” he said.
“This funding will further enhance the Field Command Vehicle, making it a very versatile asset for the CFA.
“This just further enhances the community efforts to make it a worthwhile vehicle to have in the area.”
South Eastern Metropolitan Region MP Inga Peulich said the grants would help purchase much-needed equipment to support the work carried out by the dedicated emergency services volunteers.
“This package of grants will help support the selfless and important role of volunteers in responding to all emergencies whether it be fires, heatwaves, floods or storms,” she said.
Ms Peulich said that for the first time every CFA brigade would receive a $1500 equipment grant and every brigade group will be allocated $5000 for equipment specifically suited to local needs.
“This program is another example of how this government, the community and emergency services agencies can work together to continue to protect lives and property across Victoria,” Ms Peulich said.