Seymour Telegraph, Seymour VIC (General News) by Alison OConnor Some local brigades have been big beneficiaries of the Emergency Services Volunteer Sustainability Grants program. Hilldene CFA has been allocated $16 000 for a 10 m x 10 m concrete slab to improve their facility, while Whiteheads Creek Tarcombe Rural Fire Brigade has almost $30 000 to purchase operational equipment, including an integrated slipon canopy, thermal imaging camera, two chainsaws, two Hooligan tools and two root soakers. Avenel Rural Fire Brigade will also see some facility improvements, with a new motor room including shed and concrete driveways coming their way thanks to their $25 000 allocation. All District 12 brigades, which covers the local area, will benefit from improved operational equipment including Storz conversion for appliances such as tankers and quick fills with a massive $120 892 allocation. Hundreds of grant applications for equipment, communications, facility upgrades and community engagement and training were received from volunteer organisations across the state. Member for Northern Victoria Jaclyn Symes said these grants will assist emergency volunteers in the crucial work they do in keeping the community safe. This is an exciting day for our amazing volunteers in Northern Victoria and I congratulate all our grant recipients and hope that it assists them in the outstanding job they do in keeping the community safe, Ms Symes said. The Andrews Labor Government is supporting the significant contribution of the more than 100 000 emergency management volunteers, investing in equipment, training and facilities to keep our communities safe.