Brand new home sees new heights for Chelsea unit

Brand new home sees new heights for Chelsea unit

24/05/2021, 9:17 AM

One of Victoria State Emergency Service's (VICSES') longest-running units will soon see a brand new home, thanks to a large government grant.

Established in 1953, the Chelsea unit operates out of Bonbeach Reserve, and currently sports 58 active volunteers. 

They will soon benefit from a $7 million grant from the Andrews government's, which will allow the Chelsea unit to move to a converted warehouse at 13 Ashley Park Drive, Chelsea Heights.

The new facility will boast a six-bay drive-through motor room, additional storage for boats and equipment, as well as recently upgraded infrastructure. It will also enable volunteers to assist in a wider area, taking in two thirds of the Kingston LGA, including part of Port Phillip Bay.

It follows a very busy period at the unit, with members responding to 325 requests for assistance in the last financial year - taking in floods, responses to fallen trees, damage to property, search-and-rescue operations, and more.

Acting Minister for Police and Emergency Services Danny Pearson says the funding comes at a good time.

“VICSES Chelsea is one of our longest serving units and it’s important that volunteers have the space and resources they need to effectively respond to incidents and support Victoria Police and other emergency services," he said.

This is mirrored by Parliamentary Secretary for Police and Emergency Services Paul Edbrooke.

“We’re continually looking at ways we can better support our current and future volunteers – ensuring they receive the training and facilities they need to do their job," he said.

Construction on the new facilities at Chelsea Heights begins in winter, and is scheduled for completion by the end of December, 2021.

Image: VICSES Chelsea unit.