New Mandalong RFS station enhances emergency response capabilities

New $2.1 million Mandalong fire station officially opens

The New South Wales Rural Fire Service (NSW RFS) has announced the official opening of a new fire station in Mandalong.

The $2.1 million facility includes two vehicle bays, a dedicated office, a multi-purpose meeting and training room, and accessible amenities.

The station is designed with firefighter safety in mind, featuring a CO2 extraction system, solar panels, and an advanced security system.

Deputy Commissioner Peter McKechnie AFSM, alongside The Hon Emily Suvaal BN MLC and other guests, attended the opening ceremony.

McKechnie said: “The brand-new facility located just off Mandalong Drive, sees two vehicle bays, a dedicated office, multi-purpose meeting and training room as well as accessible amenities.”

Investment and funding sources

The project was funded through multiple sources, including contributions from brigade fundraising efforts, a Community Building Partnership grant, and grants from the Centennial Coal and Origin Energy Community Investment Funds.

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

The new station replaces a smaller one-bay shed that lacked essential amenities, providing an improved working environment for volunteers.

Supporting local emergency response efforts

The Mandalong Rural Fire Brigade plays a key role in protecting the local community from bushfires and other emergencies.

In addition to emergency response, RFS members focus on preparedness, engaging with residents to raise awareness about fire risks.

Mrs Suvaal acknowledged the commitment of volunteers: “I take this opportunity to thank all of them, particularly when dealing with emergencies here in the Central Coast and Lake Macquarie area.”

She also recognised the support of families, employers, and colleagues of RFS volunteers, noting that their contributions enable responders to protect lives and property.

New Mandalong RFS station enhances emergency response capabilities: Summary

The NSW Rural Fire Service has opened a new fire station in Mandalong, funded through a $2.1 million investment from government and community grants.

The facility includes upgraded amenities, vehicle bays, and safety systems to support emergency response operations.

The station was officially opened by Deputy Commissioner Peter McKechnie AFSM and The Hon Emily Suvaal BN MLC.

The project replaces a smaller, outdated facility, ensuring RFS volunteers have access to modern resources to protect the local community.

NSW RFS expands emergency infrastructure with new control centres

Two new facilities to enhance emergency response in Northern NSW

The NSW Government is investing $21 million in new bush fire and emergency management facilities in Northern NSW.

The NSW Rural Fire Service (NSW RFS) has awarded contracts for the construction of the Clarence Valley and Namoi Gwydir Fire Control and Emergency Operations Centres.

Hines Construction Pty Ltd has been selected to build both centres following a competitive tender process.

The projects will be managed by NSW Public Works.

These facilities are being developed to improve emergency response capabilities in line with recommendations from the 2020 NSW Bushfire Inquiry.

Improved access to emergency resources

The new Clarence Valley Fire Control and Emergency Operations Centre will be relocated from Ulmarra to a site next to Grafton Airport.

This move is expected to improve access to aerial firefighting resources and enhance operational efficiency during bush fires and other emergencies.

In Narrabri, the Namoi Gwydir centre will be built on a larger site opposite the current control centre.

It will include a new station for the Narrabri Headquarters Brigade and a helipad to support emergency response operations.

Facilities designed to support emergency services

Both new centres will feature operational workspaces, training rooms and storage facilities to better support the needs of NSW RFS volunteers and other emergency services.

The facilities will be equipped with updated technology and resources to manage multi-agency responses to hazards such as storms and floods.

Minister for Emergency Services, Jihad Dib said: “These new centres will ensure our firefighters and emergency services have the modern infrastructure they need to better protect lives and properties.”

He added: “These centres strengthen our ability to respond to emergencies across the region, ensuring communities have the resources and coordinated support they need to face future challenges.”

Investment in emergency response infrastructure

The development of these centres is part of broader efforts to enhance emergency management across the state.

NSW RFS Commissioner Rob Rogers said: “These new centres are designed to support day-to-day operations and large-scale emergency management, ensuring our firefighters are better equipped to respond when disasters strike.

“These purpose-built facilities will enable our dedicated staff to provide even greater support to our volunteer members and the local communities they protect.”

Dib noted that the projects would also provide skilled employment opportunities in regional areas.

NSW RFS expands emergency infrastructure with new control centres: Summary

The NSW Government is investing $21 million in two new bush fire and emergency management centres in Northern NSW.

The NSW RFS has awarded contracts to Hines Construction Pty Ltd for the development of the Clarence Valley and Namoi Gwydir Fire Control and Emergency Operations Centres.

The Clarence Valley facility will be relocated next to Grafton Airport to improve access to aerial firefighting resources, while the Namoi Gwydir centre will be built in Narrabri with a new brigade station and a helipad.

These centres will include updated workspaces, training rooms and storage facilities to support local emergency services.

The projects align with the recommendations of the 2020 NSW Bushfire Inquiry and aim to enhance regional emergency response capabilities.