Critical equipment stolen from VICSES Emerald Unit

Critical equipment stolen from VICSES Emerald Unit

11/08/2021, 5:05 PM

Over the weekend, critical equipment from the Victoria State Emergency Service (VICSES) Emerald Unit was stolen, after the unit was broken into.

Lifesaving gear used during road rescue operations by VICSES volunteer crews, are among the items taken from the unit with other items including:

  • Car trailer - registration Z36 890.
  • Backup battery from unit’s generator
  • 4 x wheels from donated car.
  • Gate compromised.

With a severe weather warning for damaging winds still current for parts of the state, including the Emerald area, it’s vital the equipment is returned as soon as possible.

It comes just two months after damaging winds struck the Dandenong Ranges.

VICSES Emerald unit volunteers experienced one of the busiest 48 hours recorded in the organisation’s history, receiving over 800 calls for help.

The Emerald Unit also had one it’s vehicle’s crushed during that storm.

In the past 12 months, the VICSES Emerald Unit has responded to a huge total of over 2,200 requests for assistance.

Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000, or the Emerald Police Station, located on Belgrave-Gembrooke Road in Emerald.

Quotes attributable to VICSES Emerald Unit Controller, Ben Owen:

“It’s really heart breaking to come in and see our unit in such a state. Incidents like this risks our volunteers’ ability to provide appropriate storm response and road rescue services during a vital time of year”.

“We are all really devastated. After the last few busy months we have had, and with the current COVID-19 climate to top it off, it’s just really frustrating and ultimately it’s the community that suffers”.

“Hopefully we can get the equipment back as soon as possible, and continue to do what we do best - support our local community”.