Thursday, 31 October 2019

 Ms McLEISH (Eildon) (11:51): (1389) My question is to the Minister for Police and Emergency Services, and I raise it on behalf of the Hoddles Creek CFA. When will the Hoddles Creek CFA station be replaced? Members of the brigade have plans to source a new vehicle and replace ageing equipment. The brigade provides emergency catering and did so extremely well on the weekend as part of the evacuation drill of nearby communities. It is now time to replace and modernise the catering trailers which have been stored to date at several locations. The brigade’s plans rely on a new and expanded station, and the brigade want to plan appropriately to progress these other needs. It is no secret that the brigade is high on the list for a station replacement—it is one of the oldest in the Yarra Valley and no longer meets the needs of a modern brigade. The relatively recent transfer of adjoining land from VicRoads shows the process is now underway. Naturally the brigade are itching to take the next step but need to know the time frames and associated funding. I trust the minister will be able to provide the appropriate advice.