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The New South Wales Government confirmed it is investing $17 million over two years to replace outdated trucks and deliver more than 15 new vehicles.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.

NSW upgrades Snowy Mountains fire stations with $2.5 million investment

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Cooma and Thredbo stations receive major upgrades

The NSW Government has confirmed more than $2.5 million has been spent modernising fire stations in the Snowy Mountains region.

According to the NSW Government, Cooma Fire Station received $1.7 million in upgrades, while Thredbo Fire Station was allocated $900,000.

The investment is intended to improve fire protection capacity in bushfire-prone environments and enhance working conditions for local Fire and Rescue NSW (FRNSW) staff.

The NSW Government stated that works at Cooma include new engine bays and an extended driveway to support vehicles of different sizes.

Other additions include new washroom facilities, motion-sensor LED lighting, improved storage, an automatic ventilation system, and clean-up facilities for hazardous waste incidents.

FRNSW Commissioner Jeremy Fewtrell said: “Local firefighters have told us what works at stations and what needs to change.

“We’ve acted on their advice to create new-look workplaces designed to meet emergency response needs now and into the future.”

“Snowy Mountains firefighters work in unique conditions, and the improved design of their fire stations reflects this.”

Thredbo station enhancements support emergency operations

According to the NSW Government, Thredbo Fire Station was fitted with new roller shutter doors and improved ventilation as part of its modernisation project.

The government said these changes are designed to support retained firefighters working in a high-demand area, especially during ski season.

The Hon. Steve Whan MP, Member for Monaro, said: “Thredbo station is also a critical part of the region’s emergency infrastructure, and it relies on a small group of very dedicated retained firefighters.

“I’m so pleased to see this investment in keeping the facility up to standards, it’s part of the ongoing commitment to helping our emergency workers do their vital job.

“I would encourage locals who feel they could play a part to talk to Fire and Rescue about becoming a retained firefighter at one of our local stations.”

Stewart Alexander, FRNSW Acting Area Commander, added: “The timing of construction work at both stations had to work around the busy ski season and weather conditions.

“We’re thrilled to have upgraded fire stations available to service Snowy Mountains communities.”

Community-focused investment in regional firefighting

Emergency Services Minister Jihad Dib said the state government’s investment supports the long-term fire protection of Snowy Mountains communities.

Jihad Dib said: “This $2.5 million investment in Snowy Mountains fire stations, provides fire protection for local communities for years to come.

“It’s been great to visit these stations as refurbishments are completed, and these are just some of the improvements Fire and Rescue NSW is rolling out at stations across the state.

“This is a significant commitment by the NSW Government to boost frontline firefighting in a bushfire-prone environment and keep communities safe.”

Steve Whan MP added that the upgrades were welcomed by firefighters in the region, stating: “I’m pleased to see the upgraded facilities meeting the needs of the committed firefighters.

“Having spoken to many of our local firies about the project, I know they’re pleased to be getting improved storage, engine bays and driveways.”

Design feedback from firefighters shaped final works

FRNSW said that staff feedback was key to shaping both refurbishment projects.

Jeremy Fewtrell said: “Local firefighters have told us what works at stations and what needs to change.

“We’ve acted on their advice to create new-look workplaces designed to meet emergency response needs now and into the future.”

The NSW Government explained that firefighter input was essential to tailoring each location to the operational and environmental demands of the Snowy Mountains.

At Cooma, improvements also focused on health and safety measures, including automatic ventilation and hazard clean-up facilities.

The government said these facilities aim to support both daily operations and response to large-scale emergencies.

Fire and Rescue NSW supports community engagement

According to the NSW Government, both upgraded fire stations continue to serve as key points of engagement with local residents.

Steve Whan MP said: “The Cooma community and I are grateful for the commitment by the firefighters to keep us safe.

“They balance the demands of part time roles and training with their work and family commitments, and they turn out, not just in emergencies, but at a range of community events.”

The NSW Government added that the stations’ refurbishment reflects wider plans to strengthen regional fire infrastructure across New South Wales.

Jihad Dib said: “These are just some of the improvements Fire and Rescue NSW is rolling out at stations across the state.”

The state government confirmed that similar projects are underway to enhance response capabilities in other bushfire-prone areas.

NSW upgrades Snowy Mountains fire stations with $2.5 million investment: Summary

The NSW Government has reported a $2.5 million investment in fire stations in the Snowy Mountains.

Cooma Fire Station received $1.7 million and Thredbo Fire Station received $900,000.

The upgrades include engine bays, extended driveways, ventilation systems and storage improvements.

New washroom facilities and hazardous waste clean-up areas have also been added at Cooma.

Thredbo received modernised ventilation and roller shutter doors.

Emergency Services Minister Jihad Dib said the investment supports community fire protection.

The Member for Monaro, Steve Whan MP, said the updates meet firefighter needs.

Fire and Rescue NSW Commissioner Jeremy Fewtrell said the works were based on firefighter input.

FRNSW Acting Area Commander Stewart Alexander noted the upgrades were timed around ski season activity.

The NSW Government said the investment is part of broader infrastructure works across the state.

Australia extends aerial firefighting base access for NSW RFS until 2029

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Agreement secures ongoing use of defence bases for firefighting

The Australian Government has announced that the New South Wales (NSW) Rural Fire Service (RFS) will continue to have access to key military bases for aerial firefighting operations until 2029.

The agreement extends the current arrangement, allowing the NSW RFS to use RAAF Base Richmond, RAAF Base Williamtown and HMAS Albatross to support firefighting efforts.

Minister for Defence Industry and Capability Delivery, Pat Conroy, said: “This commitment provides important certainty for the RFS and supports their critical work to keep Australians and communities safe from bushfires.”

NSW RFS to maintain aerial support from military sites

The NSW RFS, recognised as the world’s largest volunteer fire service, delivers fire and emergency services to approximately 95% of New South Wales. Access to Defence sites has played a key role in supporting its operations over the past decade.

The partnership has facilitated aerial firefighting efforts during major emergencies, including the Black Summer bushfires, the 2022 Eastern Australia floods and the recent North Queensland floods.

Conroy said: “This relationship goes to the heart of the concepts of national defence and resilience, as outlined in the National Defence Strategy, by bolstering the NSW Rural Fire Service’s ability to respond to natural disasters.”

Government highlights inter-agency cooperation

The Australian Government has emphasised the importance of collaboration between federal and state agencies in disaster response.

Conroy said: “It is a further demonstration of the outcomes that can be achieved through greater partnerships between the Commonwealth, states, territories and industry.”

Defence has reiterated its commitment to supporting emergency services to enhance disaster response efforts across the country.

Australia extends aerial firefighting base access for NSW RFS until 2029: Summary

The Australian Government has extended an agreement allowing the NSW Rural Fire Service to continue using RAAF Base Richmond, RAAF Base Williamtown and HMAS Albatross for aerial firefighting operations until 2029. The NSW RFS, which serves 95% of New South Wales, has relied on Defence support for the past decade.

This collaboration has assisted responses to major disasters, including the Black Summer bushfires and the North Queensland floods. Minister for Defence Industry and Capability Delivery, Pat Conroy, said the agreement reinforces national resilience and inter-agency partnerships in disaster response.

New firefighting trucks delivered for Lower North Coast, New South Wales

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Volunteers recognised for long service in Macksville, New South Wales

As reported by the New South Wales Rural Fire Service, new firefighting trucks were delivered for the Lower North Coast, and over 30 NSW Rural Fire Service volunteers were recognised at a ceremony in Macksville.

Deputy Commissioner Peter McKechnie, alongside special guests, presented 36 Long Service Medals to volunteers with a combined service of over 870 years.

Deputy Commissioner McKechnie highlighted the significance of the event: “Today is an opportunity to recognise the hard work and incredible contribution of all RFS volunteers across the region, particularly those who have dedicated decades of service.”

He acknowledged the dedication and commitment of all the members.

Recognition of dedicated service

Deputy Commissioner McKechnie gave special recognition to five members with over 40 years of service.

These include Frank Brownhill of North Macksville Brigade, Allen Donnelly of Warrell Creek Brigade, Frederickton Brigade’s Stephen Cooper and Robert Pogoriutschnig, and Robert Willmer, a member of both Frederickton and Aldavilla Brigades.

He stated: “Every single one of these members should be proud of themselves and their commitment to protecting local communities.”

New firefighting equipment

The ceremony also included the handover of dual-cab fire trucks to the Stuarts Point, Hat Head, and Valla Beach Brigades, and a single cab to Grays Crossing Brigade.

Deputy Commissioner McKechnie emphasized the importance of modern equipment: “It’s important RFS members have access to modern firefighting technology when preparing for and responding to fires and other incidents.”

The new trucks, valued at a combined $1.09 million, are expected to enhance the brigades’ firefighting capabilities in the local area.

Acknowledging volunteer efforts

Deputy Commissioner McKechnie underscored the vital role of RFS volunteers: “The efforts of RFS volunteers do not go unnoticed and today’s event provides a great opportunity to publicly acknowledge the outstanding work of our thousands of volunteer bush firefighters, who are available to serve their communities 24 hours a day, seven days a week.”

He also mentioned the crucial support from families and employers: “Whilst it’s important to provide them with the best equipment, we know it takes the ongoing support and patience of their families and employers to assist and enable them to do what they need to do to save lives and protect property.”

New station unveiled for Picton Rural Fire Brigade

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Picton Rural Fire Brigade firefighters have official opened their new station, featuring infrastructure and resources that will help members provide the local community with an even higher level of fire protection.

NSW Rural Fire Service (RFS) Deputy Commissioner Peter McKechnie joined special guests and brigade members at a ceremony to mark the occasion, where they inspected the new facility and thanked firefighters for their ongoing commitment to the Southern Highlands District.

Deputy Commissioner said the station, located on a new site on Menangle St, features two truck bays, a kitchen, meeting and training area as well as toilet and shower facilities.

McKechnie said “This new station features amenities which will improve the experience and operational needs of our volunteers.

“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.”

The Deputy Commissioner congratulated Picton Rural Fire Brigade members for their ongoing 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 Southern Highlands District.

“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.”

Rural Fire Brigades in the Blue Mountains receive $1.1 million boost

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Rural Fire Brigades in the Blue Mountains have received a boost from the delivery of three new appliances, worth a combined $1.1 million, ahead of the official Bush Fire Danger Period beginning on 1 October.

Minister for Emergency Services and Resilience Steph Cooke joined Rural Fire Service (RFS) staff and volunteers at Katoomba to hand over the keys to Category 1 tankers for the Blaxland, Hazelbrook and Lawson Brigades.

Cook said: “Each of these appliances, worth $385,000, will assist our volunteers in providing an even greater level of fire protection to the local community.

“The Blaxland, Hazelbrook and Lawson Brigades are very active and do a wonderful job protecting people and property in one of our State’s most bush fire prone areas, as well as responding to building fires, vehicle accidents, and storm and flood responses.

“I am confident the new state-of-the-art appliances will prove to be invaluable assets, ensuring volunteers have access to modern firefighting technology when responding to fires and other incidents.”

RFS Acting District Manager, Inspector Rob Vinzenz, said the efforts of volunteers do not go unnoticed and the new Category 1 tankers will support their work: “The men and women of the RFS remain on-hand 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and we should be extremely proud and grateful for their contribution.”

Since the 2019-20 Black Summer bush fires, the NSW Government has funded more than 400 fire trucks for RFS Brigades across the State.

Fire and Rescue New South Wales partners with St George Illawarra Dragons

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Fire and Rescue New South Wales (FRNSW) have announced a new partnership with the St George Illawarra Dragons as part of their Tactical Athlete Resilience Program (TARP) initiative.

TARP aims to deliver health and wellbeing support for FRNSW firefighters via elite sporting organisations granting access to physiotherapists, health services and facilities used by some of Australia’s top sportsmen and women.

In addition to the preventative readiness component – which focuses on keeping firefighters in form – TARP also includes rehabilitation services for firefighters who are injured on the job.

Along with the Dragons, FRNSW have partnered with the South Sydney Rabbitohs, Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs, St George Illawarra Dragons, NSW Swifts, GIANTS Netball and the Central Coast Mariners to deliver the program.

Minister for Emergency Services and Resilience and Minister for Flood Recovery Steph Cooke said: “The work undertaken by our firefighters to protect communities takes a toll, both physically and mentally, and through this program our men and women on the frontline will be able to benefit from the expertise and resources used in elite sport clubs across NSW.”

FRNSW commissioner Paul Baxter said TARP demonstrates the agency’s ongoing commitment to its workforce and expanding support networks: “By empowering our firefighters with elite training, treatment and rehabilitation options, we are boosting their resilience and improving return to work outcomes.

“FRNSW is always looking for ways to minimise the incidence and impacts of illness and injury.

“By bringing on board more clubs and their medical experts across more sporting codes, TARP is now accessible to more of our firefighters and able to better cater to diverse care needs.”