Wednesday, 30 October 2024

 Alison MARCHANT (Bellarine) (10:00): Our volunteer emergency services on the Bellarine work tirelessly all year round to support local community members and visitors to the peninsula. I am immensely proud that our state government is continuing to support these vital organisations through the volunteer emergency services equipment program. Last year this grant scheme provided essential funding for four organisations across the Bellarine, and these funds were used to secure critical operational equipment, vehicles and appliances and make minor facility improvements. Over the past year I have had the privilege of spending time with these organisations, witnessing the incredible work that these volunteers do to ensure that our community can be as safe as possible in the ocean, on our roads and in dangerous weather events. I am deeply grateful for their dedication and hard work.

It was recently announced that the volunteer organisations across the Bellarine will share again in over $15 million from the 2024–25 volunteer emergency services equipment program. Drysdale CFA, Mannerim CFA, Barwon Heads 13th Beach Surf Life Saving Club and Ocean Grove Surf Life Saving Club are receiving a combined total of $123,000 to go towards new vehicles, rescue equipment and various appliances that will help them continue with their vital work.

Finally I would like to extend a heartfelt thanks to all those volunteers who devote their time and effort to supporting communities across the Bellarine. Your dedication and willingness to serve when we need it the most is invaluable, and I could not be more grateful for your service. I look forward to meeting with these organisations once again over the coming months and to hearing how we can continue as a state government to support their vital work.