ABC EMERGENCY Radio –putting safety first with Sponsorship $20,000

UYCENews

The Warburton Emergency Planning Group (WEPG) formed in 2012 to provide a direct link for Warburton residents across the range of emergency services we rely on every day. The WEPG volunteers have already have several successes and the most recent one is set to improve radio reception, particularly in out-of-range areas.

The Community FM re-broadcast radio solution involves the installation of a satellite to FM translator that will provide the Warburton Valley with full time ABC774 FM Re-broadcast services.

The permanent ABC Emergency Radio Rebroadcaster will be located on Mt Victoria providing coverage to the Upper Yarra including Don Valley, Launching Place, Yarra Junction, Reefton and beyond. It will ensure reliable radio messaging via ABC 774 at all times, but especially in times of bushfire and other emergencies.

Warburton Emergency Planning Group received sponsorship of up to $20,000 and now seek the balance of funds from Emergency Management Vic (EMV). Yarra Ranges Council have also contributed and funded the feasibility study, broadcast licence and Mt Victoria site application negotiations making this a truly combined initiative.

Installation timing is currently undetermined as final funding from EMV has not been committed, but is actively being pursued.

Kevin Bargar, WEPG spokesperson, said, ‘The lack of radio service has been widely discussed as one of the key risks for people living in our community. This installation has the potential to save lives.’

Getting ready for summer means many things in a community such as ours. Fire preparation is an essential part of living in a natural environment. Ensuring every resident has access to detailed information about emergencies is a vital community service we cannot live without.

Thank you WEPG for all that you do to improve the safety of our communities.

For useful information on emergencies and their potential impacts where you live, see www.warburtonemergency.org.au