Extended and Refurbished Shoalhaven Heads RFS Station Officially Opened

Member for Kiama Gareth Ward MP has today announced that Shoalhaven Heads and other surrounding suburbs are now more prepared for fire incidents after the official opening of the newly extended Shoalhaven Heads Brigade station and truck handover.

Mr Ward and the NSW RFS Acting Deputy Commissioner Jason Heffernan attended the official opening to inspect the brigade’s upgraded home, hand over a new fire truck and thank volunteers for their ongoing commitment to the Shoalhaven District area.

“This announcement represented a $1.3 million investment into the brigade,” he said.

“I worked hard for these funds that will provide better facilities for our hard-working volunteers. These are not costs to Government – they are investments in our community. We cannot do enough for our dedicated and brave RFS volunteers. 

“The NSW Government also released the report into the 2019-20 bushfires. I am so pleased that the Government has accepted all 76 recommendations in-principle – life and property come first. Yes – laws will need to be changed but I’m up for the debate. Red and green tape will need to be shredded and it can’t come soon enough.

“This refurbished station, located on Shoalhaven Heads Road, will continue to provide enhanced support to our local RFS volunteers as well as our local communities they protect.

“You only have to look at the last fire season to see how hard our skilled firefighters and support crews work to keep us safe when bush fires and emergency situations threaten.

“I offer my sincere thanks and gratitude to all Shoalhaven Heads RFS members and volunteers for their tremendous dedication, hard work and outstanding efforts.

“I also congratulate the Brigade on their new $370,000 Category 1 vehicle, replacing their older model,” Mr Ward said.

The NSW Minister for Police and Emergency Services David Elliott MP said it is crucial that local RFS brigades like Shoalhaven Heads have the best possible resources.

“The members of the Shoalhaven Heads Brigade are committed to protecting their communities and it is fantastic that these fantastic new facilities will further help members of the Brigade with vehicle housing, training and fighting fires,” Minister Elliott said.

The Acting Deputy Commissioner Heffernan said the NSW RFS is committed to providing volunteer firefighters with the equipment, infrastructure and resources they need to carry out the important work of protecting their local communities.

“This improved facility provides our volunteers with the space to perform vital activities away from the fireground,” Acting Deputy Commissioner Heffernan said.

“The upgrade includes an extra vehicle bay, meeting rooms, kitchen, office, outdoor area, change rooms and other amenities to increase operational capabilities and comfort for our volunteers.

“I congratulate the brigade on its efforts in fundraising $50,000 towards the cost of these upgrades,” he said.