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Show your support for Wangaratta SES

Tuesday 10 January 2017 

Show your support for Wangaratta SES

A petition seeking funding to build a new SES headquarters in Wangaratta will be tabled in Parliament next month by Nationals Member for Ovens Valley Tim McCurdy.

The petition, which currently contains approximately 60 signatures, was launched by Mr McCurdy towards the end of last year after his plea for funding for the new facility was denied by the State Labor Government.

“There is still time for people to show their support for the Wangaratta SES and the fantastic job the unit does by signing the petition,” Mr McCurdy said.

“This is one way we can demonstrate to the Labor Government that this new facility is much-needed for our community.”

In September Mr McCurdy asked the Minister for Emergency Services in Parliament for funding for a new headquarters. The Minister responded by indicating all funding had been allocated for 2016-2017 and none of it was going to Wangaratta.

The unit needs approximately $1.5 million to construct a new headquarters on a 4500-square metre block of land on the former Ovens College site, which has been set aside by the Rural City of Wangaratta.

“The Wangaratta SES unit provides a vital service to the town and its surrounds particularly during flood and for road rescue so it is essential the government gives the funds to support the work it does,” Mr McCurdy said.

“The headquarters are currently located in Millard Street and over the past few decades the responsibilities, equipment and membership of the unit has expanded enormously.

“This site is now restricted for room for SES vehicles, equipment and personnel and has inadequate IT resources, a single toilet, very limited parking and single vehicle-width access onto a very, very busy road on a blind corner.”

The petition calls on the Andrews Labor Government to provide the funding so the Wangaratta SES unit can operate from a modern, purpose-built facility which will enable its effective and efficient operation.

The petition can be signed at Mr McCurdy’s electorate office, 15 Murphy St Wangaratta or by requesting a copy.