Cheers for SES support- Heather Dixon hands Upper Yarra SES volunteer Arnold Schreuder a cheque for $5000, along with Kevin Sheehan from Killara Estate, Paul Voce from Shelmerdine, Kevin Dixon from Wi

By Mara Pattison-Sowden
TOURISM in the Yarra Valley has shown its support for local emergency services by donating $6000 to aid with equipment upgrades.
The Upper Yarra and Lilydale SES units last week welcomed donations from the proceeds of events that bring visitors to the valley.
The organisers of the ShedFest festival donated $5000 to the Upper Yarra SES from the proceeds of the purchase of a souvenir wine glass. The annual festival is in its ninth year this October, and is featuring 11 smaller Warburton Highway wineries opening their doors for visitors with food, fun, entertainment and of course, wine.
Five Oaks owner Wally Zuk said the whole idea was “to keep it local”.
“The community supports us and what better way to show our appreciation to the local community,” he said.
“We tell (festival goers) when they buy a glass, they’re donating to our local services.”
Upper Yarra SES volunteer Arnold Schreuder said the money would help them upgrade equipment as well as upgrade their storm damage trailor. Meanwhile, Lilydale SES, which operates in Coldstream, Yarra Glen, Seville and Yellingbo, received $1000 from the Regional Brolly Ball.
The ball was an inaugural event of Yarra Ranges Business and Tourism, held at the Yarra Valley Racing Centre on Sunday 29 May.Lilydale SES volunteer Dirk Arnold said the donation would be used for computer equipment.
“Computers now play an increasingly important role in the organisational aspects of running the unit, as well as for public relations and media work,” he said.
“We received a new heavy vehicle truck last year and will be taking control of a new medium rescue vehicle worth $170,000, which was totally funded through fundraising.”