Burrum Heads SES Group new driveway and vehicle

The Burrum Heads SES group volunteers have been given a boost to their ability to respond to emergencies.

“The group has been given a new response vehicle and the shed driveway improved to boost their all-weather access,” Fraser Coast Mayor and chair of the Local Disaster Management Group, George Seymour said.

“The $80,000 projects was funded entirely from the Disaster Management Levy.

“We brought the projects forward so they could be undertaken while the COVID-19 restrictions were in place to support local business.”

SES Local Controller Alex Smith said the new vehicle and driveway greatly enhance the group’s response capability.

“The all-weather access will allow heavy vehicles such as fire trucks to enter the compound and use the SES shed as a staging area during bushfire events,” he said.

Funds raised by the Disaster Management Levy are used by Council to develop and maintain its disaster management capabilities and ensure Fraser Coast communities are resilient so they can withstand and recover from natural disasters. 

The funds are used to upgrade to facilities used during a disaster; help with the running costs of Fraser Coast SES groups; purchase equipment to improve Council’s preparations and response to natural disasters and set up and maintain the region’s early warning network.

“The SES volunteers play a vital role in our communities. They are the first to respond in times of need and ensure their communities are resilient so they can recover quickly after a natural disaster,” Cr Seymour said.