VICSES South Barwon Unit (191 RFAs) was the busiest in the state, while Geelong (88), Corio (84) and Bellarine (58) units were also extremely busy.
In the 24 hours to 9am this morning, VICSES volunteers across the Barwon South West region were called to more than 460 requests for assistance, including more than 200 relating to trees down, more than 160 relating to building damage and more than 80 for flood.
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Statewide, volunteers were called to more than 830 requests for assistance during that same period.
South Barwon Unit Controller Lisa Keys thanked the community for its patience as units work through clearing up the region.
“South Barwon is acting as the incident control point and running all requests for assistance for us, Geelong and Corio units,” she said.
“Last night we saw hundreds of RFAs, with one house deemed uninhabitable and the family relocated.”
“Today we’ve got SES crews out clearing jobs and they’re backed up by other units outside our area, we also had some assistance from local CFA brigades last night which was great.
“Out units are working hard at prioritising calls and getting out as quickly as possible, but due to the large amount we can’t assist everyone at the same time.
“We’d like to thank everyone for their patience.”
With more storms due this afternoon, Ms Keys advised local residents to prepare their homes and stay safe.
“Preparation is key so tying down loose items, outdoor furniture and trampolines,” she said.
“If you’ve requested SES attendance and no longer require it, please contact 13 25 00 and cancel your request, it’s helpful for our teams heading out.
“If residents are concerned with potential flooding they can buy sandbags from Bunnings, or drop in to the local SES headquarters.
“For those more vulnerable members of the community, you can call the same 13 25 00 line and organise sandbags through there.”
Local businesses
A number of local businesses have been hit following the wild storms which began around 7pm Sunday evening, and continued well into the night until around 3am.
Target Rifle Geelong saw the entire roof destroyed and lifted off the building overnight, and has announced its closure for the “foreseeable future”.
This comes after the club was forced to close due to major flooding and reopened in late 2022.
“It is with very sad hearts that due to serious storm damage on Sunday 2/2/25 the club will not be operational for the foreseeable future.
“The club rooms and range are unsafe for visitors and members at this stage.
“When more information comes to light on the club’s future we will post updates on this page.” Target Rifle Geelong Facebook page
Updates:
The Carousel
The Carousel is closed until further notice due to flooding, including the visitor information centre.
Geelong Botanic Gardens
The Geelong Botanic Gardens is open as usual, but the Geelong Botanic Gardens cafe is closed due to a power outage.
Road Closures
Pakington Street, Geelong West is closed between Waratah Street and Lawton Avenue to remove a fallen tree. The northbound lane will remain open for buses.
If you require urgent assistance please contact the SES on 132 500. For life-threatening situations, you should always call 000.
For City of Greater Geelong non-urgent assistance, please use our online forms to leave the phone lines free for urgent calls where possible.