Macarthur Zone celebrates volunteers, new station and tankers

Acting Minister for Emergency Services Mark Speakman joined NSW RFS Commissioner Shane Fitzsimmons at the ceremony and once again thanked all involved in protecting more than 900 properties in south west Sydney over the last week.

Mr Speakman said the new $1.5 million station would provide enhanced support to Macarthur Zone volunteers as well as the communities they protect.

“Ensuring our men and women in the NSW RFS have the most modern equipment and resources to protect their local communities has been, and will remain, a key priority for this Government,” Mr Speakman said.

“We’ve seen recently how hard our skilled firefighters work to keep us safe when bush fires threaten and I offer my sincere thanks and gratitude to all the NSW RFS staff and volunteers for their outstanding efforts.”

The new $1.5 million station housing the Middleton Rural Fire Brigade and Macarthur Catering Brigade features six vehicle bays, training room, offices, storerooms, extra-large kitchen and food preparation areas.

The Middleton, Minto Heights and Narellan brigades also received a Category 1 tanker, Luddenham and Varroville brigades received new Category 7 tankers and The Macarthur Support Brigade received a new Category 9 tanker.

Commissioner Fitzsimmons also presented Long Service and National Medals to six members from the Macarthur Zone in recognition of their ongoing commitment to their local communities.

“The six medal recipients have accumulated a total of 125 years of service between them,” Commissioner Fitzsimmons said.

“I’d particularly like to congratulate the current Captain of the Catherine Field Brigade, Gary Smith, on his 26 years with the Service, 14 years as Captain and on receiving the National Medal 1st Clasp today.

“Each volunteer being recognised has demonstrated an exceptional level of commitment to their community and these medals are our proud acknowledgement of their efforts.”