State Emergency Service Aintree unit
Luba GRIGOROVITCH (Kororoit) (17:33): (880) The adjournment I raise is for the Minister for Emergency Services, and the action that I seek is for the minister to join me at the absolutely amazing brand new Aintree SES facility to meet local community members and of course the volunteers there. The brand new Aintree SES facility was built as part of the Victorian government’s $125 million investment in the Victoria State Emergency Service facility infrastructure fund, delivering a variety of new and upgraded infrastructure to support emergency services in the critical work of protecting our community. In addition to aiding their efforts, these modern purpose-built facilities help sustain and encourage volunteers, who assist in managing emergencies including floods, storms and road rescues. I will take the opportunity to once again remind this chamber that Melbourne’s west is experiencing major population growth, and it is predicted to increase by 121 per cent by 2030. With growth placing increased pressure on local units to respond effectively, we need investments like this. They are essential. It is anticipated that the unit will respond to about 500 requests for assistance per year in the Aintree, Caroline Springs and Deanside areas.
This modern and well-designed facility, which I have had the pleasure of visiting on a number of occasions, has the capacity for up to 70 members, six motor vehicle bays, state-of-the-art communication facilities, administration offices, a kitchen and a modern turnout space. The facility will help the unit respond even more effectively to emergencies. As I mentioned, I have been lucky enough to have a sneak peek at the facility thanks to Micah Spedding, who is the inaugural unit controller at Aintree SES, and to meet a number of incredible volunteers. It is evident that this is needed in our community, and I look forward to the minister joining me for the tour.