Johns River community celebrates opening of new fire station

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Johns River opens new $1.6 million fire station

Modern facility built to support local firefighters

NSWThe New South Wales (NSW) Rural Fire Service has officially opened a new $1.6 million fire station for the Johns River Rural Fire Brigade.

The opening was celebrated on Thursday 9 October 2025 with brigade members, community guests and Rural Fire Service (RFS) Deputy Commissioner Peter McKechnie in attendance.

The new purpose-built facility replaces the brigade’s previous weathered station, which was no longer suitable for operational needs.

Deputy Commissioner McKechnie described the opening as an important day for both the brigade and the local community.

Peter McKechnie, RFS Deputy Commissioner, said: “The brand-new facility located on the existing site sees two vehicle bays, a dedicated office, multi-purpose meeting and training room as well as accessible amenities.”

“It has been designed with state-of-the-art technology and firefighter health and safety in mind, replacing the existing weathered facility which is no longer fit-for-purpose in the current day and age.”

Jointly funded project supports long-term community protection

According to the RFS, the project was supported through combined funding from the Bush Fire Local Economic Relief Fund (BLERF), the Rural Fire Fighting Fund and local brigade fundraising efforts.

Deputy Commissioner McKechnie said: “The million-dollar plus investment includes brigade fundraising efforts, as well as funding through the Bush Fire Local Economic Relief Fund and the Rural Fire Fighting Fund.”

He noted that the new station provides modern, fit-for-purpose facilities that will support members well into the future.

McKechnie added: “The RFS is dedicated to providing our members with the latest technology and facilities to ensure they are prepared to respond when emergencies arise.”

Appreciation extended to local volunteers and supporters

The Deputy Commissioner also thanked local members, families and employers who continue to support the brigade’s work across the Mid Coast area.

He said: “Our members don’t just attend emergency incidents; they also have a strong focus on preparedness and continually engage with the community about the threat of fires.”

“I take this opportunity to thank all of them, particularly when dealing with emergencies here in the Mid Coast area.”

“We also thank the family, friends, employers and colleagues of all RFS volunteers. We know it takes their ongoing support and patience to assist and enable our volunteers to do what they do to save lives and property.”

Relevance for fire and safety professionals

The opening of the new Johns River Rural Fire Brigade station highlights the ongoing investment in regional emergency infrastructure within New South Wales.

For fire and rescue chiefs, it demonstrates how funding from multiple sources – including government recovery programs and local fundraising – can deliver sustainable facilities for volunteer services.

For training officers and brigade managers, the inclusion of a dedicated training and meeting room supports operational readiness and continuous development.

For equipment specifiers and facility planners, the project provides an example of how modern station design integrates firefighter health, safety and technology upgrades into one site.

Brampton builds all-electric fire station in Ward 10

by Americas - Featured NewsFeatured NewsSustainability
Image Credit: The City of Brampton

Construction begins on fire station 215

The City of Brampton has reported that construction has started on Fire Station 215, a new all-electric facility in the city’s northeast.

The 11,377 square-foot site will include two bays, a hose tower, a green roof and solar panels.

The city explained that the facility will be fully electric, including its vehicles, HVAC equipment, building automation systems and infrastructure.

Station 215 is expected to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by about 15 tonnes annually.

The project will be located in Ward 10 and is scheduled to be completed by autumn 2026.

The station was designed by Design Partners In Architecture and Interiors.

Sustainability features included in design

The City of Brampton stated that the fire station supports its climate action plan.

It explained that the annual emissions reduction is equivalent to taking four petrol-powered cars off the road or planting 666 trees.

The city added that this approach reflects a broader strategy to reduce reliance on fossil fuels in municipal infrastructure.

It said that rooftop solar, green building systems and electrified operations are part of a long-term environmental investment.

These features are also expected to lower operational costs over the facility’s life cycle.

Anticipated impact on emergency response

The City confirmed that Fire Station 215 will enhance emergency response in the northeast of the city.

Once operational, the new station will reduce response times for nearby residents.

The city explained that faster arrival at incidents is a central goal of the investment, aimed at protecting lives and property.

According to Brampton Fire and Emergency Services, additional capacity in the area will improve coverage during overlapping calls.

It said this will reduce the strain on existing stations in other wards.

City officials comment on the project

Rowena Santos, Regional Councillor for Wards 1 and 5 and Chair of the Community Services Section, said: “This new fire station reflects our commitment to building complete, healthy communities where families feel safe and supported.

“Located in one of Brampton’s fastest-growing neighbourhoods, Station 215 will improve emergency response times and give nearby residents peace of mind.

“It also supports the incredible work of our firefighters, who dedicate themselves every day to protecting lives and property across our city.

“I am proud to see Brampton taking a forward-thinking approach to both safety and sustainability.”

Patrick Brown, Mayor of Brampton, added: “As Brampton continues to grow, we are investing in infrastructure that keeps people safe and supports a greener future.

“Station 215 is a critical addition to our emergency services network and a reflection of our commitment to both public safety and environmental leadership.

“By building a fully electric fire station equipped with solar panels, green infrastructure and electric fire trucks, we will be able to respond faster to emergencies and reduce emissions to build a more sustainable city for future generations.”

Broader city strategy

The City of Brampton explained that Station 215 aligns with its wider infrastructure programme.

It stated that the project builds on earlier investments in facilities and equipment for first responders.

The city said this includes providing updated tools, modern stations and enhanced technology.

It reported that the development is also part of commitments set out in Brampton’s climate goals.

The city added that these commitments focus on reducing emissions while ensuring reliable emergency services.

Community and service integration

According to the City of Brampton, the fire station is designed to serve a rapidly growing part of the city.

It explained that population growth in the northeast has driven the need for expanded emergency service coverage.

The city said that the project aims to integrate community needs with environmental responsibility.

It added that Station 215 demonstrates how public safety infrastructure can be developed with both resilience and sustainability in mind.

The city stated that this approach will remain central to future projects across Brampton.

Relevance for fire and safety professionals

The City of Brampton’s development shows how new fire stations can integrate sustainability with operational readiness.

For professionals, this highlights the growing expectation that facilities deliver both improved response and reduced environmental impact.

The project also shows how electrification, renewable energy and green building systems are being applied in emergency service design.

It reflects a model that other municipalities may follow as climate policies and service demands evolve.

Brampton fire station set for 2026 completion: Summary

The City of Brampton has reported that construction has started on Fire Station 215.

The project is located in Ward 10 in the northeast of Brampton.

The facility will be a two-bay, 11,377 square-foot site.

It will include electric fire trucks, a hose tower, rooftop solar, and a green roof.

The station was designed by Design Partners In Architecture and Interiors.

The city said the station will be fully electric, including HVAC and building automation.

It explained that the facility will cut greenhouse gas emissions by about 15 tonnes per year.

This is equivalent to removing four petrol-powered cars from the road annually.

It is also equivalent to planting 666 trees every year.

The city confirmed that the project supports Brampton’s climate goals.

The station will enhance response times for residents in the northeast.

It will reduce pressure on existing stations during simultaneous calls.

Officials said it will support the work of Brampton Fire and Emergency Services.

The project is scheduled for completion in autumn 2026.

The station will then be fully operational.

It will support both community safety and environmental goals.

Central Coast emergency response upgraded with new fire truck and station refurbishment

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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.

Killara Brigade open new $3.1 million fire station

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Killara Rural Fire Brigade members celebrated the official opening of their new fire station, providing a purpose-built base for their emergency operations to protect their community.

NSW Rural Fire Service (RFS) Commissioner Rob Rogers, The Hon. Greg Donnelly MLC, Government Spokesperson for Davidson, representing the NSW Government, members of other emergency services, and Mayors of Ku-ring-gai and Hornsby joined the members to mark the opening and recognise the Brigade Deputy Captain’s service over five decades.

The ceremony also includes the presentation of Long Service Medal, recognising Deputy Captain Stuart Clark for 50 years of dedicated service.

Commissioner Rob Rogers, NSW Rural Fire Service’s statement

“Today’s opening marks a significant milestone for the Brigade’s 56 members and the local community,” Commissioner Rogers said.

“More than $3.1 million has been invested into this facility, including an impressive brigade fundraising effort and grants from the NSW Government’s Local Small Commitments Allocation program and Bendigo Bank.

“With three truck bays, change rooms, amenities and a multi-purpose space for training and meetings, this station is designed to serve the growing needs of the area.

“Formed in 2018, the Killara Brigade had previously housed its vehicles at the Ku-ring-gai Brigade station, but now has a permanent facility to call its own.”

Commissioner Rogers said the new station would support RFS volunteers in their ongoing efforts to protect the local community: “The RFS is dedicated to providing our members with the latest technology and facilities to ensure they are prepared to respond when emergencies arise.”

Deputy Captain Stuart Clark receives Long Service Medal

Commissioner Rogers spoke on Deputy Captain Stuart Clark recieving the Long Service Medal: “Since joining in 1973, Stuart has provided the most distinguished level of service to the RFS, its members and community across the Hornsby/Ku-ring-gai District.

“As a founding member of the Killara Brigade, he has also been a driving force behind its growth and development and the station we open today.

“Our members selflessly give up so much to prepare and protect their communities and I also want to take this opportunity to thank all of them.”

New station opened in the Ku-ring-gai District: Summary

The Killara Brigade has celebrated the opening of their new fire station. Commissioner Rob Rogers said that the unveiling marked a great milestone for the Brigade’s 56 members and the local community.

Čelić inaugurates new fire station with EU support

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Opening of Čelić’s first fire station

The Municipality of Čelić has inaugurated its first fire station, enhancing the security infrastructure of the area.

The event was attended by citizens, local authorities, and international organisations, marking a key milestone for the community.

Admir Hrustanović, Mayor of Čelić, expressed his gratitude during the ceremony: “As our citizens know, for over 30 years we have been waiting for the opening of a fire station, right in this place.

“Today we celebrate, not only the opening of the first fire station in our community, but also the sincere partnerships that made this possible.

“This is why I wish to extend my heartfelt gratitude to donors and partners for their unconditional and sincere support and persistence in achieving our joint vision.”

Support and funding

The establishment of the fire station was made possible by the European Union‘s support, along with co-financing from the Municipality of Čelić and the Government of the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina.

This collaborative effort aimed to improve living conditions and enhance trust within the local community.

The new facility is seen as a symbol of collective efforts to improve living conditions in local communities.

It also aims to strengthen trust and cohesion both within and between communities, as emphasised by the local authorities.

Community impact

The fire station’s opening is expected to significantly enhance the safety and emergency response capabilities in Čelić.

The presence of a local fire station will provide quicker response times to emergencies, ensuring better protection for residents and their properties.

The local community, which has awaited this development for decades, now looks forward to a safer environment.

The new fire station is a testament to the enduring partnerships and collective efforts that have brought this vision to fruition.

Castlereagh district celebrates investment in new station and fire trucks

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Members of the Castlereagh District Brigade have marked the inauguration of the newly built Warrumbungle and Tonderbrine Brigade station alongside a special ceremony to commend the dedication of district members.

Castlereagh’s new station on John Renshaw Parkway now operational

RFS Assistant Commissioner Jayson McKellar has confirmed the completion of the $320,000 facility situated on John Renshaw Parkway at Tonderbrine.

He highlighted the station’s modern amenities: “This station features two truck bays, kitchenette, accessible bathroom, storage facilities and features solar power and water tank.”

Over $700,000 in new trucks for local brigades

During the ceremony, new trucks were officially handed over to the Bearbung and Deep Creek Brigades.

The investment in these new resources exceeds $700,000, underscoring the commitment to equipping volunteer firefighters

The RFS is committed to providing volunteer firefighters with the equipment they need to carry out the important work of protecting their local communities from fire and a diverse array of incidents.

Volunteer dedication was in the spotlight as the RFS recognized the exceptional service of its members.

Assistant Commissioner McKellar said: “Five members today will be recognized for 50 or more years of service and I would like to make special mention of John Ohem, who is receiving the Long Service Medal and 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th Double Clasps for 61 years’ service.”

The commitment of Castlereagh District members was further applauded: “Members of the Castlereagh District have always answered the call, not only assisting with incidents locally but across the state.”

McKellar also extended gratitude to the volunteers’ support networks. He expressed his thanks: “I also thank the family, friends, employers and colleagues of all RFS volunteers.

“We know it takes their ongoing support and patience to assist and enable our volunteers to do what they do to save lives and property.”

IFSJ Comment

The new facilities and equipment for the Castlereagh District Brigade represent a significant enhancement of fire and safety operations in the region.

With the recent investment, volunteers are better equipped and prepared to respond to local emergencies effectively.

Acknowledging the dedication of long-serving members also highlights the valuable human element in fire services, reinforcing community ties and continuity in volunteer firefighting.

Such developments not only improve response capabilities but also serve as a testament to the ongoing commitment to safety and support for those who selflessly serve their communities.

Gap Rural Fire Brigade opens new station

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The Gap Rural Fire Brigade has officially opened its new station, which will provide a central and secure hub for members as they continue to provide their community with fire protection.

NSW Rural Fire Service (RFS) Chief Superintendent, Kelwyn White, presided over a ceremony. Brigade members and guests were in attendance as Chief Superintendent White inspected the new building while commending the firefighters for their continued commitment to the community and the Service.

The $213,500 facility, situated on Gap Hall-Downside Rd, offers essential features such as truck bays and toilet facilities, which enhance the volunteer firefighters’ operational needs and comfort.

Chief Superintendent White commended The Gap Rural Fire Brigade members for their unwavering devotion to responding locally to grass, crop, and hay shed fires, and applauded them for their hard work and dedication: “These men and women remain on-hand 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and we should be extremely proud and grateful for their contribution.

“I would like to take this time to praise all our volunteers for their ongoing efforts each and every day, particularly when dealing with emergencies here in the Riverina District.”

She added: “We also thank the family, friends, employers and colleagues of all NSW RFS volunteers. We know it takes their ongoing support and patience to assist and enable our volunteers to do what they do to save lives and property.”

Two fire stations open in Mid-South Cantebury

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Fire and Emergency National Commander Russell Wood officially opened two new fire stations in Mid-South Canterbury on Saturday.

Rangitātā Gorge Volunteer Fire Brigade, which was established in the 1980s, never previously never had a facility and had to store the appliance where there was space, taking turns hosting training at each other’s homes and storing equipment in a 20ft container.

The new 146-sq m fire station is a $1.25 million new build comprising an appliance vehicle bay, operations room/training room, decontamination and ablution facilities. It also has a water storage tank, PPE storage, exhaust fume management and off-road parking.

Peel Forest Volunteer Fire Brigade was the first rural fire unit in the South Island when it was established in 1954. The updated 200-sq m station is a $1.26 million new build to replace their old, concrete block facility. It comprises of an appliance vehicle bay, support vehicle bay, operations room/training room/ kitchenette, decontamination and ablution facilities, PPE storage, exhaust fume management, water storage tanks and off-road car parking.

The brigades were originally set up to protect the property and environment both within the Peel Forest village and in the upper reaches of the Rangitātā Gorge. Both stations will serve as bases for search and rescue in what is a high-use area for the general public with a range of recreation activities such as rafting, hiking, hunting and jet boating.

Russell Wood commented: “Both of these brigades hold an important role for the small, rural communities they serve, and these new stations will ensure these two brigades will be able to continue to serve the needs of these communities.

“They also form part of the wider region surge capacity for a larger-scale incidents.

“For Rangitātā Gorge in particular, I’m pleased the brigade will be able to park the appliance in a purpose-built facility that fits all their equipment and that they have space to come together to train, connect and serve their community.”

New Wildwood firehouse gets the green light

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A judge has allowed construction of a new firehouse in Wildwood to move forward following a year long delay.

Resident William Ballard sold more than an acre of land to allow for the new firehouse along Wild Horse Creek Road to be built, but construction was held up after Wildwood’s mayor said the fire district did not include the city in finding land for the new facility or securing needed permits.

“We spent this last year, really with nothing happening because of Monarch’s position that it didn’t have to do anything the city asked it to do, and it essentially ignored us,” Wildwood Mayor Jim Bowlin said in August. “Then the judge said they can’t do that.”

Mayor Bowlin’s big concern with the location of the new firehouse came from a recent traffic study, which showed response times could increase by about ten seconds.

Bowlin said: “Our residents expect their mayor and their council to look after their safety and to protect them. That’s exactly what we’ve done in this case and we will continue to do that not only in this case but any other similar case that comes before us.”

Following the ruling, Monarch Fire Protection District Assistant Chief Les Crews said his department is excited to finally be able to start construction on the new firehouse on Wild Horse Creek Road.

That’s behind us now,” said Assistant Chief Crews. “Now it’s time to move forward and build a fire station voters voted for and give them that protection that they deserve.”

In 2020, voters approved a bond issue to build two new firehouses for the Monarch Fire Protection District and acquire three new firetrucks.

Crews added: “We’re ready to go and obviously there was a timeline that we wanted to try to establish. We still believe we’re gonna be well within that time.”

NFCC unveils pioneering Direct Entry Scheme for management positions

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The National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) is set to launch a Direct Entry Scheme next month which will enable those with proven leadership skills, from a variety of sectors, to apply for Station Manager and Area Manager roles without needing to have fire service experience or without needing to have taken the traditional firefighter promotional route.

A recruitment campaign will begin in September through appointed recruitment experts at Reed Specialist Recruitment Ltd. Those recruited to the roles will be expected to acquire, develop and demonstrate skills and expertise in management and command functions, as set out for their role in the nationally agreed applicable role maps. This development will be enhanced through a nationally designed, co-ordinated, and quality assured process.

The campaign marks the first time here has been a national, robust and quality assured direct entry programme. The main aim of the scheme is to create a different route to entry into the roles of station manager and area manager alongside the more traditional firefighter route, playing a part in diversifying senior management in fire and rescue services.

Ten fire and rescue services from across the UK have signed up to join the pioneering pilot to self-fund a direct entrant. Those services intending to adopt the scheme are Oxfordshire FRS, Staffordshire FRS, Shropshire FRS, East Sussex FRS, Avon FRS, Leicestershire FRS, Greater Manchester FRS, Royal Berkshire FRS, Hertfordshire FRS and North Wales FRS.

Direct Entry Project Executive Rod Hammerton said: “We hope that the scheme will draw new perspectives and experiences from the brightest and best who might not ordinarily have seen a career in the fire and rescue service as being open or attractive to them.

“Being a Fire Officer is a tough job at times, but it is a hugely rewarding one. I am excited to see who puts themselves forward for this fantastic opportunity.

“Direct entry isn’t new to fire and rescue services but launching the scheme in a way that creates a supportive cohort right across the country is. The response from services wishing to be “early adopters” has been overwhelming and I am confident we will be able to offer a compelling proposition to candidates from across the whole of the UK.”

Dawn Whittaker, Direct Entry Project Executive said: “Many of the leadership skills required to run a modern FRS are not dissimilar to those required in other sectors, with people, financial, partnership and commercial skills at the fore.

“By diversifying those in our more senior roles we can invest in the future of our sector, and those already involved in the scheme are doing just that.”

The project was launched to address some of the recommendations made in the HMICFRS State of Fire Report, which stated: “To provide the best possible response to the public, services need to be able to choose from the widest talent pool possible. That pool is currently restricted, with many people feeling excluded.”

The recent Government White Paper endorsed the work of the project, stating: “The NFCC Leadership hub is leading a project on direct entry schemes at Station and Area Manager level, as well as developing a coaching and talent-focused culture. This is a welcome development and should be supported by all services.”