VICSES Dunkeld Unit volunteers mark opening of new facility

Congratulations to the Victoria State Emergency Service Dunkeld Unit volunteers, who over the weekend officially opened their brand-new purpose-built facility, marking a significant milestone for local volunteers and the broader community.

VICSES Chief Executive Officer Robert Purcell joined volunteers, partner agencies and community members in Dunkeld on Saturday to commemorate the occasion and recognise the unit’s long and proud history of service to the local community.

While the building is new, VICSES Dunkeld Unit volunteers have been diligently serving their community for decades, often operating from shared or constrained facilities. The new station provides a safe, functional and modern base for volunteers to train, respond to emergencies and support their community.

The project was delivered through a strong partnership approach. Land for the facility was donated by Victoria Police, alongside support from a generous local bequest, significant unit and community contributions and investment from VICSES via the Victorian State Government.

The new facility includes flexible spaces to support training, meetings and collaboration with other emergency services and community groups.

It reflects the coordinated approach to emergency management across regional Victoria and supports ongoing volunteer capability, wellbeing and operational readiness.

The VICSES Dunkeld Unit is currently home to 24 volunteers and responds to around 50 incidents each year, including storms, floods, road crash rescues, search and rescue operations and support to partner agencies.

The new facility is expected to support volunteer recruitment and retention, ensuring the unit remains strong, capable and connected to the Dunkeld community for many years to come.
 

 
 

Quotes attributable to VICSES Chief Executive Officer, Robert Purcell:

“This weekend was a proud moment for the VICSES Dunkeld Unit volunteers as they officially opened the doors to their new home.”

“While the building is new, the service and commitment of this unit is long standing. These volunteers have been supporting their community for decades, and this facility now matches the professionalism they demonstrate every day.”

“Most importantly, this facility is an investment in people. It gives our volunteers a safe and modern space to train, respond and continue protecting the Dunkeld community.”