A grassroots push is underway to strengthen fire protection in one of East Gippsland’s most remote communities, with Gelantipy CFA and the Suggan Buggan Community Fireguard seeking funding to secure vital firefighting equipment.
Suggan Buggan Fireguard secretary and treasurer Brett Davies has launched a GoFundMe campaign to raise funds to purchase a CFA slip-on fire unit and ute currently operated by the Gelantipy CFA, which is expected to be replaced with a newer model within the next month or two.
Mr Davies said securing the unit would be a major boost for local fire preparedness in the isolated Suggan Buggan area.
“The slip-on unit is all one setup on a ute, which makes it much safer and quicker to respond in bush terrain,” he said.
“We don’t have to waste valuable time hooking up trailers — it’s ready to go immediately.”
The Suggan Buggan Community Fireguard was formed in February 2024 in response to the area’s isolation, with the nearest CFA brigade located about 50 minutes away. Mr Davies said CFA crews often cannot attend incidents in Suggan Buggan due to the danger and limited resources.
“That’s why we formed the Fireguard — to protect lives, property and the environment when help simply can’t get here quickly,” he said.
In its first year, the Fireguard has already raised funds for a Furphy fire trailer, an additional trailer-mounted slip-on unit, and a shed to house the equipment. Construction of the shed is currently awaiting completion of the cultural heritage process, which is expected to be finalised in the coming weeks.
While trailer-mounted units remain valuable, Mr Davies said the ute-based slip-on would significantly improve safety and efficiency when navigating bush tracks and responding to fast-moving fires. The trailers can then be positioned at different properties for static protection.
The Suggan Buggan Community Fireguard is a registered, incorporated not-for-profit organisation with its own insurance, and also plays a key role in protecting local heritage assets, including the historic wooden Suggan Buggan schoolhouse.
Mr Davies, who is also a member of the Gelantipy CFA, said if enough funds are raised to purchase the slip-on unit, the money would go directly back into the CFA.
“It’s a win-win,” he said.
“We get the equipment we need locally, and the CFA benefits as well.”
Donations can be made via the GoFundMe page titled “Suggan Buggan Fire Slip-On – Protect Our Community and Wildlife.” Anyone seeking further information can contact Mr Davies.
