New Mandalong RFS station enhances emergency response capabilities

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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.

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.

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.

Eight NSW Rural Fire Service members awarded Australian Fire Service Medal

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Recognition of exceptional service to NSW communities

Eight members of the NSW Rural Fire Service (RFS) have been awarded the Australian Fire Service Medal (AFSM) as part of the Australia Day Honours.

The AFSM, established in 1988, acknowledges individuals who have shown distinguished service and commitment as members of Australian fire services.

According to the NSW Rural Fire Service, the eight recipients were recognised for their dedication, leadership, and contributions during critical emergencies, including the 2019/20 Black Summer bushfires.

Commissioner Rob Rogers AFSM commended their achievements: “These eight RFS members embody the spirit of service and dedication that defines our organisation.”

The recipients include individuals from various regions across New South Wales, each having made substantial contributions to their communities through firefighting, mentoring, and emergency coordination.

Commissioner praises selfless contributions

Commissioner Rogers highlighted the altruistic nature of RFS volunteers, stating: “While they don’t seek praise, our members serve because they care about their communities.

“It is fitting to honour their tireless commitment and the difference they make in people’s lives.”

He noted the combined experience and dedication of the honourees, whose service spans hundreds of years collectively.

Their work ranges from leading teams to mentoring future leaders and managing complex emergencies.

Commissioner Rogers added: “We are incredibly proud of these individuals’ contributions.”

List of honoured members

The eight honoured members and their respective brigades are:

  • Group Captain Scott Alexander Campbell, Lawrence Rural Fire Brigade (Clarence Valley)
  • Deputy Captain Samuel Stuart Clark AM, Killara Rural Fire Brigade (Hornsby/Ku-ring-gai)
  • Group Captain Anthony Clough, Wantabadgery Rural Fire Brigade (Riverina)
  • Deputy Captain Robert James Conroy, Coal and Candle Rural Fire Brigade (Northern Beaches)
  • Deputy Captain Jennifer Ann Farrell, Matcham-Holgate Rural Fire Brigade (Central Coast)
  • Group Captain John Duncan Hedley, Bulga Rural Fire Brigade (Hunter Valley)
  • Group Captain Wayne Robert Keel, Halls Creek Rural Fire Brigade (Tamworth)
  • Captain Robyn Leslie Reynolds, Pambula Rural Fire Brigade (Far South Coast)

The full citations for each recipient are available on the NSW Rural Fire Service website.

Honouring dedication to fire safety in New South Wales

The recipients of the Australian Fire Service Medal were chosen for their outstanding service to their communities.

Their achievements during major emergency events and their ongoing contributions to fire safety reflect the dedication of the NSW Rural Fire Service.

According to the NSW Rural Fire Service, these individuals serve as examples of the commitment and resilience demonstrated by fire service members across the state.

Eight RFS members receive prestigious honours on Australia Day: Summary

Eight members of the NSW Rural Fire Service have been awarded the Australian Fire Service Medal in the Australia Day Honours.

The AFSM recognises exceptional service and leadership by Australian fire service members.

Commissioner Rob Rogers highlighted the achievements of the recipients, praising their work during emergencies such as the 2019/20 Black Summer fires.

Honourees come from brigades across New South Wales and include leaders, mentors, and emergency coordinators.

Full citations for each recipient are available on the NSW Rural Fire Service website.

Hills RFS opens new $1.37 million training centre in Sackville North

by Featured NewsTraining

New facility supports RFS volunteers across growing districts

The Hills Rural Fire Service (RFS) District has opened a state-of-the-art training facility at Sackville North, designed to support training and operational needs for RFS volunteers across The Hills and nearby districts.

The $1.37 million centre was funded through several sources, including $250,000 from donations following the 2019/20 fire season and $400,000 from the RFS and Brigades Donations Fund.

RFS Deputy Commissioner Peter McKechnie said the centre is an investment in the training and preparedness of the Service’s volunteers: “Our volunteers are the backbone of the RFS, dedicating their time and effort to safeguard lives and property. This new facility ensures they receive the best possible training in a modern, realistic environment.”

Facility features advanced training and operational tools

The Hills Training Centre includes a training room equipped with wireless internet, video conferencing, and essential radio systems.

It also features purpose-built structural firefighting “hot cell” and “warm cell” structures to provide realistic training scenarios. Volunteers will have access to safe work on roofs training areas.

Additional amenities include a kitchen, BBQ area, accessible restrooms, PPC washing and drying facilities, and a backup generator.

The facility is expected to play a key role in improving volunteer readiness and operational capacity across the district.

Location enhances emergency response coordination

The site at Sackville North is co-located with the Sackville North Brigade station and will also serve as a forward command point during large-scale emergencies.

Deputy Commissioner McKechnie said: “The strategic location enhances the facility’s ability to ensure efficient coordination across agencies during emergencies.”

The construction project was completed in July 2024, marking the latest phase of a development process spanning over a decade.

Tribute to Group Captain James Smith AFSM (Retired)

As part of the opening, a training centre room has been named in honour of Group Captain James (Jim) Smith AFSM (Retired), recognising his more than 50 years of service.

Deputy Commissioner McKechnie said: “As a Captain of Middle Dural Brigade for 16 years and 25 years as Group Captain, Jim’s dedication to the RFS and his community is exemplary.

“Jim was integral to the development and completion of this Centre, and the facility stands as a testament to his vision and service.”

Hills RFS opens new $1.37 million training centre in Sackville North: Summary

The Hills Rural Fire Service District has opened a $1.37 million training facility at Sackville North, co-located with the local brigade station. The centre was funded through combined sources, including donations from the 2019/20 fire season.

The facility features advanced training resources, including structural firefighting cells, safe roof work areas, and modern communication systems. It will also serve as a forward command point during large-scale emergencies, improving coordination across agencies.

The centre honours Group Captain James Smith AFSM (Retired) for his decades of service to the RFS and community.

Rural Fire Service members awarded Australian Fire Service Medal

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Eight New South Wales Rural Fire Service (RFS) members have been awarded the Australian Fire Service Medal (AFSM) in Australia Day Honours in recognition of their hard work and dedication to the community.

RFS Commissioner Rob Rogers congratulated the members on the national acknowledgement of their contribution and commitment to the Service, their fellow RFS members and their communities: “These members are a credit to the organisation and well deserving of this honour,” he said. “Together, they have given more than 310 years of service to the RFS and their community – an incredible feat.

“Our people are our strength and we are proud to have such experienced, skilled and dedicated members in our ranks.”

The RFS recipients of the AFSM are:

› Group Captain Bruce Angel, Tarcutta Rural Fire Brigade (Riverina)
› Deputy Group Captain Jennifer Bamman, Surf Beach Rural Fire Brigade (Far South Coast)
› Group Captain Peter Bulliman, Boara Rural Fire Brigade (South West Slopes)
› Group Captain Warren Cree, Davidson Rural Fire Brigade (Northern Beaches)
› Deputy Commissioner Peter McKechnie, Narara Rural Fire Brigade (Central Coast)
› Group Captain Maurice McMillen, Eglinton Rural Fire Brigade (Chifley/Lithgow)
› Captain Kym Stanford, Mungindi Rural Fire Brigade (Namoi/Gwydir)
› Group Captain Craig Walters, Elong Elong and Wongarbon Rural Fire Brigades (Orana)

The AFSM was instituted in 1988 to acknowledge distinguished service by members of Australia’s fire services.

Commissioner Rogers said the award recipients had a lengthy list of achievements, including in key leadership roles, training and mentoring and fire and emergency response and coordination such as during the 2019/20 fire season: “Our members make a valuable contribution to the safety of our community without any expectation of reward or accolades. These awards are a chance to thank not only our eight AFSM recipients but all their colleagues as well.”

Students graduate NSW Rural Fire Service Secondary School Cadet Program

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Thirty-five students are set to graduate from the NSW Rural Fire Service (NSW RFS) Secondary School Cadet Program after successfully completing the three day course that introduces young people to the important role volunteer firefighters play within communities.

NSW RFS District Manager Superintendent Kevin Adams said 14 students from Tirkandi Inaburra Cultural and Development Centre and 10 students from Coleambally Central School and 11 students at Yanco Agricultural High School will graduate from the course.

“As well as examining fire behaviour, the students were taught essential fire safety techniques and gained an appreciation of the work our emergency services do every day in this state,” Superintendent Adams said. Students at Tirkandi Inaburra also had the opportunity to cover aspects of cultural burning practices.

“The cadet program also offers students the opportunity to experience first-hand the commitment and camaraderie that comes with volunteering.”

Adams added that it is great to see genuine enthusiasm for this important community based program and hope it continues as part of the curriculum for years to come.

“In addition to our NSW RFS members, I would also like to extend a special thanks to the school and centre’s staff and community for helping to make this program such a success.”

Adams also paid tribute to the staff and volunteers from the MIA District who facilitated the course: “NSW RFS members thoroughly enjoy working closely with schools and communities to ensure that everyone is as well prepared as possible for the very real threat of fire. Firefighters cannot do it alone,

“The Service is proud to pass on the ideals of community service, dedication and teamwork to the next generation and also hopefully gain some more RFS volunteers within our brigades.”

NSW Rural Fire Service recognises volunteer firefighters

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The NSW Rural Fire Service (NSW RFS) Illawarra/Sutherland District has recognised the achievements of volunteers from the Illawarra and Sutherland area with the presentation of medals in honour of their service.

NSW RFS Assistant Commissioner Ben Millington joined Superintendent Matthew Reeves to present 27 National Medals and 79 Long Service Medals to deserving members at two ceremonies held at Tradies Helensburgh.

Assistant Commissioner Millington congratulated the award recipients for their dedication over the years: “The members being recognised today with long service and national medals and or clasps range from 10 to an incredible 74 years of service.

“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 Illawarra/Sutherland area.

“The hard work and professionalism of all NSW RFS members does not go unnoticed and while they do not ask for praise, we should take this opportunity to acknowledge their contribution and commitment to their community.

“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.”

Superintendent Matthew Reeves highlighted the important work the 35 Brigades within the Illawarra/Sutherland District do to protect communities across NSW: “With a combined total of more than 500 years’ service between them, these members have dedicated their time to protect their local communities, as well as travelling to protect those in other parts of the state and sometimes even further afield.

“We are so lucky to have such dedicated members who selflessly give their time to serve others in their greatest time of need – whether that be fire, flood or other emergency.”