By Ashok Verma
A GAMECHANGER for the region — that’s how Jaclyn Symes described the new $6 million Kilmore State Emergency Services (SES) unit headquarters.
There was a unanimous round of heart-felt smiles and applause as Ms Symes kickstarted the landmark project on Tuesday with a sod-turning ceremony to mark the facility construction along with Kilmore Unit Controller Steve Caddies and one of the founding members, Kerry De Gabrielle.
“Our volunteers deserve the best facilities, and this new headquarters will ensure the VICSES Kilmore unit is well equipped to continue its vital work,” Ms Symes said.
The headquarters, on about a 2000sqm site, is located at 114 Powlett Street, next to the unit’s current site at 24 Green Street.
Ms Symes said: “The Kilmore SES, they’re just a huge part of the community.
“So, to be able to deliver a state-of-the-art facility that’s going to meet their needs now, and in the future, is a gamechanger for the local unit.
“It’s going to make sure that they’ve got a place where they can be comfortable, safe and ready to turn out when the community needs them, but also more and more people are going to be interested in joining a wonderful organisation.”
The ceremony was attended by proud volunteers, VICSES chief executive officer Rob Purcell, who came for the day from Melbourne, Deputy Chief Officer Cain Trist, and newly elected Mitchell Shire Council Deputy Mayor Timothy Hanson.
“This new facility isn’t just for us — it’s about delivering better outcomes and services for the whole community,” Mr Caddies said.
“With improved infrastructure, more space and room to grow, we will be equipped to meet whatever support the community needs, respond to a wide range of emergencies and support our partner agencies, whenever needed.
“Today we are not just breaking ground, we are setting up Kilmore SES for the future. I am really looking forward to seeing this new unit rise and proudly serve our region for many years to come.”
Asked whether the unit can expect some more funding in the future, Treasurer Ms Symes said: “Obviously, as they’re saying, this is actually one of the busiest units, and for rescue and storms and all that.
“Well, look, it’s a multimillion-dollar build that we’re building, and obviously, they’ll have the opportunity to make sure they’ve got the equipment that they need.
“So we’re always responding to the growing communities in Victoria, making sure SES has got the resources that they need to do what they do best.
“1 want to thank SES volunteers for all the wonderful work they do in keeping our community safe, their hard work doesn’t go unnoticed.”
The facility has been funded as part of the Victorian Government’s $26 million investment in emergency services’ upgrades.
Cr Hanson, who represented Mitchell Shire Council at the ceremony, said: “We are pleased to see this project moving forward. A modern SES facility in Kilmore will make a real difference to emergency response across our region.
“The SES has been a long-standing partner for Mitchell Shire, and we appreciate the dedication and professionalism of the Kilmore unit’s volunteers.”
The new facility will have a large motor room with four vehicle bays, a large training and meeting space, offices, turnout area, kitchen, laundry and storeroom. It will also have shower, washing machine, dryer, air-conditioning, facilities that are lacking at the current site.
The unit’s current building at 24 Green Street will stay. Construction of the new facility is expected to be completed by mid-next year.
