Ararat Rural City Council has committed funds to help Victoria State Emergency Services Ararat Unit upgrade its headquarters.
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In November 2021, the unit received a $240,000 grant from the state government to help it make various improvements to its headquarters on 85-87 High Street. These improvements will include separating male and female changing rooms, installing new flooring in some areas, replacing the roller door, and fixing leaks in the roof.
However, as the grant did not fully cover the cost of the improvements, the unit requested the council contribute the remaining $20,000.
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Councillors unanimously agreed to do so at their council meeting on Tuesday, April 20.
Cr Peter Beales moved the motion to assist the project's funding and said it was crucial council support the unit.
"We get great service out of our local SES unit and they should be housed in an appropriate way," he said.
"Changing rooms are a really important issue, and there's actually no changing rooms at all there.
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"I think it's one of the best investments of $20,000 we've had for a long time."
Since late 2020, the Ararat Unit has received an influx of new members.
Ararat Rural City Council chief executive Dr Tim Harrison said this made the funding particularly timely.
"As a volunteer organisation, the SES is made up of some special people in our community who are willing to make self-sacrifice to protect others around them," he said.
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"What's most pleasing to hear is that the number of volunteers is growing, with 28 members currently making up the Ararat Unit, three more going through inductions, and another nine people signing up.
"With a growing team, the Ararat SES deserves a home base that can support their volunteers to do their best work."
Council will fund the project through savings in its Minor Building Works budget.
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