The Hobsons Bay SES Unit was one of more than 150 grassroots community and not-for-profit groups across Australia to receive a grant from Australia Post.
As part of the annual initiative , The Hobsons Bay SES received $1,662 from their People of AusPost Grant Program.
A SES spokesperson said the money would be put towards new Emergency Equipment to store on emergency response vehicles for use when responding to flood, storm and rescue emergencies.
“These include a hand operated hydraulics kit, socket sets, and lifting tongs for chainsaw operations,” the spokesperson said.
“This equipment will support our volunteers in responding to our core roles in rescue and storm damage.”
A SES spokesperson said the unit applied for the grant after being sponsored by an AusPost employee.
“We are excited to receive the support of Australia Post to purchase equipment for the unit,” the spokesperson said.
“It is heartening for our volunteers to receive this support so that we can dedicate our time to helping the community.
“The entire Hobsons Unit will utilise the equipment provided by this grant, which will benefit the Hobsons Bay community as well as intra and interstate communities.”
As the SES operates solely on volunteers and funding, the SES said it has launched a new campaign called FUNDVICSES.
“[Last month], SES volunteers launched our FUNDVICSES campaign, calling on the state government to commit to a long-term, sustainable funding model for VICSES,” the spokesperson said.
“SES volunteers rely heavily on community funding such as donations and grants in order to provide our services to the community.
“Hobsons Bay SES is a 100 per cent volunteer emergency service, and is not a funded entity.
“We receive an annual subsidy to assist with ongoing operating costs, however we are heavily reliant on community support, donations and grants to continue to provide excellent service to our community.”
Details: www.fundvicses.org
