Twenty-four Victorian emergency services personnel are travelling to New South Wales tonight to assist with major flooding and severe weather impacting northern parts of the state.
Victorian personnel will support NSW counterparts in Metford, within the city of Maitland, in response to the ongoing flood emergency, with 14 incident management personnel, nine Community Liaison Officers and a Jurisdictional Liaison Officer.
Among the contingent of 24 emergency services staff and volunteers are representatives from Victoria State Emergency Service (VICSES), Fire Rescue Victoria (FRV) and the Country Fire Authority (CFA).
Quotes attributable to Acting Emergency Management Commissioner Allyson Lardner
"Victorians are ready to support our interstate colleagues no matter the time of year. After a busy season at home, our emergency services are once again dedicating their time to helping others.
"Our thoughts are with the local emergency services and communities in NSW as they continue to feel the impacts of this weather event."
Quotes attributable to VICSES Acting Chief Officer Alistair Drayton
“Yesterday was the national day of thanks to SES volunteers, and today our VICSES volunteers are responding to help their NSW counterparts. This shows their incredible commitment to helping the community – not just their own but across the country.
“Our SES emergency first responders work as one, in Victoria and across the nation, and we will continue to provide support wherever we can.”
Quotes attributable to Fire Rescue Commissioner Gavin Freeman
“Fire Rescue Victoria is proud to support our colleagues in NSW as they battle major flooding.
“Our highly skilled people are committed to working with our counterparts across the emergency services sector to help keep people safe during this complex situation.”
Quotes attributable to CFA Acting Chief Officer Garry Cook
“CFA is always happy to assist our partner agencies interstate. Victorians know all-too-well the devastating impacts of these types of emergencies and we’re pleased our members can share their expertise to help with the response in these communities.”
“Thank you to our members for their time and commitment to help those in need. Our thoughts are with those affected communities in NSW.”