Central Coast fire station upgrade aims to improve emergency response
Fire and Rescue NSW has reported that emergency response capacity in Central Coast, Australia, is being improved through new infrastructure and fleet investment.
A $1.8 million refurbishment of Umina Fire Station is currently underway and is expected to be completed by the end of 2025.
At the nearby Gosford Fire Station, firefighters will receive a new $900,000 Rescue Pumper truck.
The state government said both projects are part of a wider programme aimed at upgrading the NSW firefighting fleet and facilities across the region.
The New South Wales Government confirmed it is investing $17 million over two years to replace outdated trucks and deliver more than 15 new vehicles.
Umina Fire Station refurbishment includes health and safety upgrades
According to Fire and Rescue NSW, the Umina Fire Station upgrade includes several modifications designed to improve firefighter safety and wellbeing.
The station’s 36 personnel will have access to a new gym, designated protection zones, and improved rest areas.
Fire and Rescue NSW said these protection zones are intended to reduce contamination by separating potentially hazardous material from communal spaces.
Additional modifications include new toilet and shower blocks, upgraded storage areas, and separate male and female locker rooms to improve privacy.
The station, originally converted from an indoor sports facility in 2001, is undergoing its first major modernisation in over two decades.
Gosford crews receive new rescue vehicle
Fire and Rescue NSW announced that Gosford Station will soon be equipped with a new Rescue Pumper designed in collaboration with operational staff.
The agency said the $900,000 vehicle includes updated tool storage and layout, aimed at improving access to equipment during emergency response.
According to Fire and Rescue NSW, this change is expected to speed up operational deployment during call-outs.
Matthew Waldon, Acting Area Commander for Fire and Rescue NSW, said: “For our crews further north in Gosford, I know they are certainly keen to familiarise themselves with the new and innovative Rescue Pumper.”
Waldon added: “Our people are excited about the upgrades delivered by the NSW government and FRNSW.”
Wider investment programme across New South Wales
The New South Wales Government confirmed that the Gosford and Umina projects form part of a two-year, $17 million investment into the firefighting fleet.
The capital programme is being delivered under a wider $98.7 million budget that also covers upgrades to fire stations across the state.
Jihad Dib, Minister for Emergency Services, said: “The NSW Government is investing in our emergency services to deliver the equipment and infrastructure needed to support our firefighters and protect lives, property, and communities on the Central Coast.
“This investment brings the station in line with modern standards and ensures a safe, clean work environment for firefighters.
“Gosford’s brand-new fire truck will enhance response times and provide protection for Central Coast communities for years to come.”
Government and community response
Local MP Liesl Tesch welcomed the investment and the modernisation of both facilities.
Tesch said: “As our Central Coast community grows, it’s so important that the capacity of our emergency services grow alongside our region.
“The refurbishments at Umina are significant and the changes will be very much welcomed by Central Coast communities.
“Our local firefighters serve our community every day, putting themselves in harm’s way to protect our community.
“Along with Gosford’s new truck, Umina’s modern and safety-focused upgrades showcase the NSW Government’s commitment to putting the wellbeing of local firefighters serving the community front and centre.”
Paul McGuiggan, Acting Commissioner at Fire and Rescue NSW, added: “Fire and Rescue NSW is rolling out upgrades across our properties and fleet, which not only protect our communities but also enhance the safety of our crews.
“In the case of the Umina renovations and new Gosford Recue Pumper, Fire and Rescue NSW has sought firefighter input to ensure the facilities and equipment suit their needs.
“These upgrades will ensure we’re ‘Prepared for Anything’ here on the Central Coast.”
Central Coast emergency response upgraded with new fire truck and station refurbishment: Summary
Fire and Rescue NSW is upgrading emergency response infrastructure on the Central Coast.
A $1.8 million refurbishment is underway at Umina Fire Station.
Gosford Station will receive a new $900,000 Rescue Pumper truck.
The NSW Government is investing $17 million over two years into new fire trucks.
This is part of a broader $98.7 million capital works programme.
Umina upgrades include protection zones, locker rooms, and a gym.
The Gosford truck was designed with input from firefighters.
All upgrades aim to improve safety, capability, and operational readiness.