News

Emergency Services | October 12, 2016

Kealy supports Casterton Fire Brigade

Nationals Member for Lowan, Emma Kealy has spoken in Parliament this week calling on the Andrews Labor Government to commit funds desperately needed to upgrade the Casterton Fire Brigade station.

“The brigade has outgrown its premises, with trucks parked mere centimetres from walls and other equipment creating operational and OHS issues for volunteers” Ms Kealy said.

“A new station is desperately needed to allow for accommodation of the brigade’s trucks, equipment and CFA members.

“It is essential our local CFA volunteers have a facility that allows them to operate safely and efficiently. The inadequacy of the current Casterton facility is placing significant stress on the volunteers who are trying to help their community,” she said.

The issue of storage is a common issue for many brigades. The size of vehicles and firefighting equipment has continued to increase over time; however the size of storage sheds have remained the same.

“The previous Minister for Emergency Services, Hon. Jane Garrett had previously visited the facility and was well aware of the issues being faced by volunteers. It is important the new Minister for Emergency Services, James Merlino also sees this as a priority project”, Ms Kealy said.

“Our volunteer CFA firefighters protect Victorians every day fighting fires, with many also giving their personal time and energy in many other roles in the community.

“I will continue to stand up for our local people to ensure the voices of our country communities are heard.

“This is an opportunity for the Andrew’s Labor Government to actually show some appreciation and support for our CFA volunteers by funding a new fire shed so desperately needed in Casterton” she said.