State-of-the-art headquarters unveiled for VICSES Wonthaggi Unit
A new state-of-the-art headquarters for Victoria State Emergency Service (VICSES) Wonthaggi Unit volunteers is set to provide local members with increased capacity to manage emergencies along Victoria’s Bass Coast.
The new development, which was formally opened by Bass MP Jordan Crugnale on behalf of the Minister for Emergency Services on Saturday, boasts a host of modern amenities including four drive-through motor bays and a 42 locker turn-out room.
Situated at a new location on White Road, the brand-new VICSES Wonthaggi Unit also houses training and welfare rooms, office space, a communications room, kitchen, and features secure CCTV and backup generator systems, a rainwater tank and is wired for future solar energy use.
The procurement of new land for the VICSES Wonthaggi Unit was initially announced as a commitment of the 2018/19 State Budget.
Celebrating its 48th anniversary this year, VICSES Wonthaggi Unit has a strong local volunteer base, with members receiving more than 70 requests for assistance (RFAs) in the last 12 months.
With the Bass Coast historically subject to significant flood and storm events, VICSES Wonthaggi Unit volunteers have been kept busy in recent times, receiving more than 400 RFAs since 2019.
Local VICSES volunteers are also principal Road Crash Rescue (RCR) providers along the Bass Coast area, working closely with Victoria Police, Ambulance Victoria and fire services in the local area to support their communities in times of emergency.
The new facility is expected to bolster VICSES Wonthaggi Unit’s relationship with these partner agencies and nearby VICSES Units, serving as a modern training base and meeting facility for the area.
On Saturday, senior members of VICSES’ executive, including Chief Officer Operations, Tim Wiebusch, Chief Executive Officer, Greg Leach, and Deputy Chief Officer Capability, David Baker, will join VICSES Wonthaggi Unit Controller Jarrod Hargreaves for a tour of the new facility following its formal opening.
Quotes attributable to VICSES Chief Officer Operations, Tim Wiebusch
“Our VICSES volunteers play a vital role supporting communities across the Bass Coast region in times of emergency, and it’s important they have a modern fit for purpose headquarters from which to provide their important service.
“This new facility promises to provide a major boost to the VICSES Wonthaggi Unit response capability and the community it serves.”
Quotes attributable to VICSES Wonthaggi Unit Controller, Jarrod Hargreaves
“It’s fantastic to welcome our community into our new home, which has been a brilliant addition to the resourcing of our local unit.
“We’re thankful for the opportunities this new headquarters provides and can’t wait to continue to promote VICSES by providing vital emergency support across Wonthaggi and surrounds.”
