Barpa is proud to be delivering the new Victoria State Emergency Service (VICSES) Kilmore Unit headquarters, a project that not only provides a modern operational facility for local volunteers but also creates meaningful opportunities for the next generation within the community.
Funded by the Victorian Government and delivered in partnership with the Victorian Infrastructure Delivery Authority (VIDA), the new headquarters builds on Barpa’s successful delivery of the Aintree and Point Cook VICSES facilities. Located alongside the unit’s current home of more than 45 years, the new facility will provide a highly visible, purpose-built base to support more than 50 volunteers and a growing junior membership.
Once complete, the headquarters will feature four drive-through motor bays, modern training facilities, office accommodation, a commercial kitchen, dedicated turnout facilities and an expanded training footprint, providing volunteers with the infrastructure they need to continue supporting the rapidly growing Kilmore region.
Community participation has been central to the project from the outset. Through Barpa’s Indigenous Pathways to Construction Program, Wallan Secondary College students Taylea and Billie have undertaken a 20-week work experience placement on the project as part of their VET Construction Pathways studies.
Working alongside the Barpa team, the students have gained first-hand exposure to commercial construction, learning about project delivery, subcontractor coordination and the wide range of trades involved in delivering complex infrastructure. They will continue their placement through to project completion, further developing their skills while building valuable industry relationships.
Barpa Indigenous Coordinator Jordan Falla said creating opportunities like these is fundamental to Barpa’s purpose.
“Barpa sees great value in supporting the communities in which we work, particularly through engagement with local schools and Indigenous organisations.
“By identifying and creating meaningful opportunities, we can provide young Indigenous people with exposure to the commercial construction industry and help build confidence, knowledge and interest in future career pathways.”
VICSES Kilmore Unit Controller Steve Caddies said the new headquarters would significantly enhance the unit’s ability to serve the community.
“It’s been incredibly exciting to watch the build of our state-of-the-art headquarters progress and we’re looking forward to calling it home in the coming months.
“This facility will go a long way to ensuring our volunteers have the infrastructure and resources they need to support growing populations in Kilmore and surrounding townships.”
The project reflects Barpa’s commitment to leaving a positive legacy in the communities where we work—not only through the delivery of high-quality infrastructure, but by creating pathways for Indigenous employment, strengthening local relationships and investing in future generations.
