The grants are being offered by the Victorian Government under the Volunteer Emergency Services Equipment Program.
Seymour SES has been one of the volunteer groups across the state to benefit from the grants in recent years, with it able to buy a multi-purpose support unit for its rescue vehicle.
Volunteer Corey Rawlinson said the Toyota HiLux four-wheel-drive was more versatile than the unit’s previous vehicle.
“The old vehicle couldn’t carrying as much as this one,’’ he said.
“This one is able to carry more weight and so is a better support for our rescue vehicle.’’
Victorian Emergency Services Minister Jaclyn Symes said the grants helped fund operational equipment, including the purchase of trucks, tankers, watercraft and trailers, but could also be put towards minor facility improvements such as kitchens and change rooms.
“Our selfless emergency services volunteers are there when we need them most and these grants are all about helping ensure they have the latest equipment to do what they do best – protect communities and save lives,” she said.
Under the program, volunteer CFA brigades will share more than $10.6 million, VICSES units $2.39 million, Marine Search and Rescue units, including the Australian Volunteer Coast Guard Association, $350,000, Life Saving Victoria clubs $835,000 and other volunteer agencies $380,000.
Groups could apply for a grant of up to $150,000, with the government contributing $2 for every $1 raise by local volunteer groups.
Applications close Thursday, May 26.
