Emergency services volunteers in the Northern Victoria Region are being recognised for their vital work to keep Victorian families safe with a $3.2 million campaign called “Vital, Valued, Victorians” highlighting the role of volunteers in our community.
The Member for Northern Victoria Region, Candy Broad today encouraged Northern Victorian residents to recognise the work of emergency services volunteers locally.
“Local emergency service volunteers are the building blocks of Victoria’s emergency service response,” Ms Broad said.
“The last fire season asked a lot of volunteers and their families, and this is an opportunity to show our support as we approach what is likely to be another demanding fire season.
“This campaign highlights the extraordinary skills, dedication and community-mindedness of our volunteers. It also recognises the diverse contributions they make throughout the year.
“Volunteers are not only vital in a crisis, they are valued for the work they do all year to prepare, educate and protect the community.”
I am extremely grateful for their unwavering commitment to protecting our safety.”
Victoria is proud to have more than 84,000 emergency services volunteers across the state, with the CFA boasting one of the largest volunteer-based emergency services in the world.
Ms Broad said the campaign featured real-life volunteers from the Country Fire Authority (CFA), the State Emergency Services (VICSES), Life Saving Victoria (LSV), Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) and the Australian Volunteer Coast Guard (AVCG).
“This campaign not only gives us a great opportunity to recognise the work of all volunteers, but also to encourage more people to get involved in volunteering.”
Vital, Valued, Victorians will run for three months and span TV, print, radio and online advertising. All Victorians are encouraged to show their support by posting a message on the website www.volunteer.vic.gov.au or sending an SMS with “Vols” and their message to 0488 50 50 50.
Details on how to get involved in emergency services volunteering can also be found at www.volunteer.vic.gov.au/becoming-a-volunteer.html.