Friday, 8 November 2024
Steph Cooke, Member for Cootamundra, today announced the successful allocation of $188,614 to the Volunteer Rescue Association (VRA) Narrandera for the redevelopment of their premises, funded under the Clubgrants Category 3 Fund.
“This is a long-awaited and hard-fought win for our local community,” Ms Cooke said.
“For six years, we have tirelessly advocated for the redevelopment of the VRA Narrandera’s facilities, and it is incredibly rewarding to see this funding finally come to fruition.”
The investment will transform the VRA premises, ensuring that our local rescue volunteers have the modern, functional facilities they need to continue providing vital emergency services to the community. They will also have somewhere modern to train and keep their skills current.
“Our VRA volunteers give so much in responding to emergencies of all kinds and help keep us safe. They deserve the best possible facilities to support their important work, and this redevelopment will make a meaningful difference,” Ms Cooke said.
With this redevelopment, the VRA Narrandera will be in an even stronger position to attract new members, Ms Cooke said.
Narrandera VRA Captain Alistair MacDonald said this funding will not only support the local squad but also the other ten squads which make up Region South which takes in Narrandera, Leeton, Junee, Wagga Wagga, Albury, Batlow, Binalong, Deniliquin, Corowa and Coleambally.
“It is fantastic to see funding come to regional areas, as it not only supports us as a combat agency in our training, but also supports the local community,
“Local trades will be used to undertake the works, and once completed means those travelling to Narrandera to undertake training will need somewhere to eat and stay in the area, so it’s also a boost to the local economy." Mr MacDonald said.
“Modern, well-equipped facilities not only improve the working environment for our current volunteers but also make joining the team more appealing for potential new members. I encourage anyone who has ever considered volunteering to get involved and be part of this amazing organisation, supporting our community in times of need.” Ms Cooke said.
“I extend my heartfelt thanks to past and present VRA members who have supported this cause over the years, and I am thrilled to share this wonderful news with the community.”
“This funding marks a significant step forward for Narrandera, and I look forward to seeing the impact it will have on the incredible work of our volunteer rescue heroes,” Ms Cooke said.
Image: Steph Cooke with Members of VRA Narrandera announcing $188,614 funding for the redevelopment of their facilities (from left to right) Shannon Rivero, Steph Cooke MP, Alistair MacDonald Captain and Debbie Hobbs.