Community stories: 21 October 2022
Just in time for a very wet forecast, the Wallaby Joe RFS in Wingham, in the Mid North Coast region of New South Wales, has taken delivery of the first part of their order for wet weather gear.
In Round 3 of the Volunteer Emergency Services Fund (VESF) grant program, Wallaby Joe RFS received a grant of $7,213 funded by the Lachlan and Sarah Murdoch Foundation to boost volunteer vitality with the provision of wet weather gear, helmet torches and emergency flares for use during community emergencies.
Gary Cox, Development Project Coordinator, Wallaby Joe RFS, says further deliveries are expected in the coming months.
“These garments have been delayed due to supply chain issues and high demand across a very wet New South Wales. The new wet weather gear complements the Eflares and helmet torches already acquired with your (FRRR’s) assistance and greatly adds to the safety and comfort of our volunteers. The brigade is most grateful for your generous support.”
Senior Deputy Captain, Rev Brian Ford models the new wet weather gear!
VESF is an FRRR program that aims to support the needs of local volunteer emergency services and first responders supporting communities affected by the Black Summer bushfires. This particular RFS’s recruitment soared after that terrible summer, and the procurement of operations equipment is a great example of how grants can help communities and their amazing volunteer services prepare for extreme weather event and natural disasters.
