Chance for fire funds

CFA brigades and other emergency service organisations can apply to get their slice of $3.76 million in State Government funding.
Gembrook MP Tammy Lobato has urged eligible groups to apply for funding through a new 2009 round of the Community Safety Emergency Support Program (CSESP).
The CSESP grants program is open to all CFA brigades, VICSES Units, Life Saving Victoria Clubs, Australian Volunteer Coastguard (AVCG) flotillas and Community Emergency Response Teams (CERT) teams.
Ms Lobato said local CFA brigades could apply for the State Government’s special allocation for slip-on units, which have evolved into new ultra-light tankers.
“Last year 16 new slip-on units were funded through our special allocation and with the recent bushfires showing once again how valuable these units are, this initiative has been extended for a further year,” she said.
The ultra-light tankers are able to access difficult areas and have a 400-litre water capacity.
Priority will be given towards brigades with the greatest operational need.
The CSESP has provided more than $21 million in funding to volunteer emergency services for additional equipment since 2000.
To apply for a CSESP grant, local groups should contact their agency’s CSESP representative or Ms Lobato’s office on 9796 1987.