Liberals promise $5.8m to boost emergency services in Chelsea, Edithvale

EMERGENCY services across the Mordialloc-Chelsea region would be boosted if the Liberals win power at this weekend’s state election.

Liberals promise new HQ for Chelsea SES l to r: Phil Wall, Ron Fitch, Richard Jenner, Michael Vatta and Tracy Meagher Picture: Susan Windmiller

EMERGENCY services across the Mordialloc-Chelsea region would be boosted if the Liberals win power at this weekend’s state election.

Under a re-elected Coalition Government Chelsea SES would get $2.8 million for a new headquarters, while $3 million would be spent to build the state’s first co-located CFA and Australian Volunteer Coast Guard (AVCG) facility in Edithvale.

Minister for Police and Emergency Services Kim Wells said a new headquarters for Chelsea SES was vital to ensure the region’s emergency services could grow to meet community needs.

“The member for Mordialloc Lorraine Wreford has worked tirelessly to make this commitment a reality for the hardworking SES volunteers in Chelsea, who have outgrown their current facility and provide a critical service for the local community,” Mr Wells said.

“This funding will ensure Chelsea SES has the latest tools and facilities they need to better protect the local community.”

Ms Wreford welcomed the announcement, which would see the Chelsea SES Unit relocate from Bonbeach to Aspendale.

“Moving to a new site will create an emergency services hub for Chelsea and surrounding areas and better accommodate our volunteers who regularly assist the local community during storms and floods, road rescues and other emergencies,” Ms Wreford said.

Chelsea SES media liaison Phil Wall said the unit was thrilled with the announcement.

“We would welcome support like this no matter which side of government it comes from,” Mr Wall said.

“Blue or red doesn’t matter to us, we’re all about the orange.”

Mordialloc state Liberal MP Lorraine Wreford with Premier Denis Napthine in Mordialloc.

Ms Wreford said the co-located CFA and Coast Guard headquarters in Edithvale would also feature an innovative business hub, which would provide a dedicated space for volunteers to work, before or after a call-out, and include wi-fi and mobile device recharging stations for laptops and smart devices.

“This commitment is about enhancing the collaboration and coordination between the CFA and AVCG to bolster community protection, and providing our volunteers with the tools and resources they need to their job,” Ms Wreford said.