Despite ongoing funding tensions between the CFA and the State Government, the Bayles community has rallied behind its volunteer firefighters, successfully reaching the fundraising goal to upgrade the air-conditioning at the Bayles Fire Brigade.
In less than a month, the GoFundMe campaign has surpassed the original $5,000 target, in a powerful show of community support.
Donations ranged from as little as $5 to a very generous anonymous contribution of $3,000, along with a $1,000 donation from the Koo Wee Rup Bendigo Bank. Additional contributions were also made directly through the CFA.
The fundraiser was launched by Bayles resident Brandi Richardson after a social media post from the brigade highlighted that the station did not have working air-conditioning and described it as “like an oven in the station hall”. Though not a member of the brigade, she felt compelled to act to support local volunteers.
“Which shows just how much people value and appreciate our volunteer firefighters,” Ms Richardson said.
“Thanks to this generosity, our volunteers will have a more comfortable space to recover after long, demanding shifts, and stay ready to respond when we need them most.”
The funds will go toward upgrading the brigade’s air-conditioning system, which has struggled to cope during extreme heat after long call-outs and training sessions.
Victoria continues to experience severe bushfire conditions, with Total Fire Ban days and elevated fire danger ratings affecting many regions.
Bayles Fire Brigade volunteers remain on the frontline, protecting homes, livestock, and lives across the district.
“Both myself and the Bayles Fire Brigade volunteers are truly, deeply grateful to everyone who supported this fundraiser,” Ms Richardson said.
While the successful fundraiser addresses a local need, broader concerns about firefighter resources continue across Victoria.
Recently, the United Firefighters Union, CFA Volunteers’ Group, and Victoria Alliance
launched a petition calling for action on the condition of CFA and FRV appliances.
The parliamentary inquiry also points to the controversial Emergency Services Levy as the source of gaps between funds collected and the essential equipment needed to support frontline crews.
Gazette is awaiting comments from CFA and Bendigo Bank.
