VICSES Essendon Unit refurbishment works complete
Judd Feeney presents a drawing to VICSES COO Tim Wiebusch, as VICSES volunteer Nikki Feeney watches.
Today, our Victoria State Emergency Service (VICSES) Essendon Unit volunteers celebrated the official opening of their newly refurbished facility located at 9 Rutherford Street, Aberfeldie, funded by the Victorian Government’s $125 million investment in VICSES capital works.
Operational since March 2022, the full refurbishment includes a new Divisional Control Point (DCP), which coordinates emergency response activities with other emergency services agencies, and will enable the unit to continue to respond effectively to floods and storms and assist Victoria Police, Ambulance Victoria and the fire services.
The new facility also includes a dedicated boat shed allowing the unit to house two boats, and an additional office and training room increasing operational capability.
The refurbishment also includes a new dedicated turnout area, upgraded kitchen and amenities, additional windows throughout, skylights and roof ventilation for the boat shed, bollards to the front and rear of the motor room, and new lighting and paving, all contributing to a safer and more operationally efficient facility for the volunteers.
The fit-for-purpose facility will help VICSES to recruit and retain dedicated volunteers, as well as to continue protecting the Victorian community responding to rescues, floods and storms, and provide valuable assistance to partner agencies.
Established in 1981, the VICSES Essendon Unit has played a vital role in serving and protecting the Victorian community. The unit serves the Moonee Valley and surrounding areas and has 59 active members who have responded to more than 550 Requests for Assistance in the last 12 months.
Last year, VICSES recorded its busiest year on record with more than 46,000 calls for assistance state-wide.
The new facility was officially opened today by Minister, and Member for Niddrie, Ben Carroll MP and Minister, and State Member for Essendon, Danny Pearson MP.
Acting Emergency Management Commissioner Chris Stephenson was in attendance alongside Moonee Valley Shire Mayor Samantha Byrne, VICSES CEO Stephen Griffin, VICSS Chief Officer Tim Wiebusch, VICSES Regional Manager Ray Jasper and proud VICSES Essendon Unit Controller John Bates.
