Fleurieu Peninsula communities will be serviced by a new, state-of-the-art South Australian State Emergency Service (SASES) Unit based in Strathalbyn.

Minister for Emergency Services Joe Szakacs officially opened the new $2.8 million Strathalbyn Unit on Saturday 22 October with a Community Open Day.

"I'm thrilled to see the new SASES Unit at Strathalbyn open up to service a growing area, providing quicker response times and improved operational facilities to support our SASES volunteers and community during times of need," Mr Szakacs says.

"The new Unit will serve the Strathalbyn and surrounding areas better than ever during flooding, severe weather and other emergency situations.”

Located 28 Milnes Rd, Strathalbyn, land for the new Unit was purchased from the Strathalbyn Harness Racing Club. The Unit will have 36 solar panels, a purpose-built training facility and an operations coordination room.

Chris Beattie, SASES Chief Officer, says the Strathalbyn project has been a priority for the agency’s capital program and provides an important upgrade on the previous facility which was at its end of life.

“This unique facility will be the training hub for the Adelaide Hills and Fleurieu region and is reflective of the value both the State Government and our local community places on the contribution of the SASES and its volunteers,’’ he says.

The Unit currently includes 30 registered volunteers and responds to around 250 emergency incidents each year. It has the capacity to house four emergency service vehicles and associated stores and consumables.

Newly appointed volunteer Unit Manager Dani Sherriff says dedicated volunteers are excited to be making the move.

“It will ensure we continue to provide a high level of support for communities in need. 

“The community has been watching the new Unit take shape since March and we have received renewed interest from the public about becoming a volunteer with the Strathalbyn SES Unit.

“We are always looking for new members to support their local communities and I encourage people to visit www.ses.sa.gov.au/volunteer or call 1300 364 587 for more information.’’