A new $497,000 CFA station and $345,000 tanker for Darnum and Ellinbank CFA have strengthened emergency response in Cloverlea.
Representing Minister for Police and Emergency Services and Bushfire Response Kim Wells, Member for Narracan Gary Blackwood today officially opened the Darnum and Ellinbank CFA station which he said builds on the Napthine Government’s significant investments to make Victoria a safer place.
“Community safety is paramount and the Coalition Government is doing its part to build on the investments that have already been made to bolster Victoria’s emergency services,” Mr Blackwood said.
“The new $497,000 station forms part of the Coalition Government’s $125 million commitment to build or upgrade 250 CFA stations across the state, and with more than 245 stations now complete, we are well on track to deliver our commitment by the end of this month.
“The new station as well as a new $345,000 medium tanker will boost emergency response capabilities for the region and ensure Cloverlea is better protected.
“These upgrades provide our hardworking firefighters with the latest specialist equipment and resources and ensure a higher level of protection to volunteers who perform a critical role responding to fires and other emergencies.
Mr Blackwood said the new station has been designed to meet the brigade and region’s current and future needs.
“The new fire station features improved meeting and training facilities that will further enhance the brigade’s relationship with the community,” Mr Blackwood said.
During the event, Mr Blackwood officially handed over the keys to a new medium tanker to the brigade’s captain.
“This new $345,000 truck has a crew protection spray deluge system as well as drop down fire protection curtains in the cabin, significantly increasing firefighter safety,” Mr Blackwood said.
Mr Blackwood said the Coalition Government has a proven and strong commitment to supporting the CFA and its firefighters who play a critical role in Victoria’s emergency response.
“This financial year the CFA Budget is $457 million, $58 million more than it was when Labor left office,” Mr Blackwood said.
“In addition to millions of dollars of station upgrades, we have also invested more than $108 million to purchase 275 CFA trucks.
“The Coalition Government’s significant investments in Victoria’s fire services and the broad suite of emergency management reforms that have been introduced over the past four years have helped to ensure Victoria is now better protected.”
