The Brimbank State Emergency Service (SES) unit is now better equipped to respond to emergencies after receiving funding from the Community Bank Keilor East to purchase vital equipment.
As a beneficiary of a $5500 donation from the bank, the unit has successfully acquired a mule (a rugged wheeled stretcher), and two domestic rescue kits.
According to SES Brimbank’s Bailey Lambert, as a volunteer organisation the agency heavily relies on grants and financial contributions.
“Support like this is crucial to our operations,” he said.
“It was incredibly generous for the bank to make such a significant donation, we’re really happy.”
Having to operate without its own mule until only recently, meant the Brimbank unit was relying on other crews for help.
A mule is designed to help transport patients over uneven terrain, such as bush trails or national parks like Brimbank’s Organ Pipes, and Mr Lambert said a handy stretcher will now ensure members can respond to emergencies at those sites without wasting any time.
“We primarily use the mule to assist Ambulance Victoria paramedics in situations where someone injures themselves in a difficult location,” he said.
“Previously we had to borrow that equipment from neighbouring areas such as Sunbury or Hobsons Bay and that delayed our response time which can be crucial for patients.
“This donation not only improves the capability for Brimbank and the community, but it also improves the capability for surrounding communities because we can now assist them as well.
“It allows us to really help people in times of need.”
Prealene Khera
