New $3 million firefighting hub for Murrumbidgee Irrigation Area

Summary

A new era for local NSW Rural Fire Service (NSW RFS) firefighters was marked today as the NSW RFS Commissioner Shane Fitzsimmons officially opened a state of the art Fire Control Centre in Griffith.

During the opening ceremony Commissioner Fitzsimmons explained how the improved facilities will assist in the effective management of fire and other emergencies throughout the Murrumbidgee Irrigation Area (MIA) area.

“This brand new first class facility is a focal point for operations, logistics and community information.

“The new facility is impressive, with purpose built offices, training room, kitchen and a dining area as well as a state of the art operations room which will aid Emergency Services to better coordinate the response to major fires in the area.

“I have no doubt this new Fire Control Centre will provide a tremendous boost to volunteers as well as the local community.

“These facilities will allow our volunteers to continue to be supported with the latest technology and equipment whilst they work amongst their local communities in times of need,” said Commissioner Fitzsimmons.

Plans for the new $3 million facility were drafted in 2010, with firefighters committed to seeing their new building become a reality throughout the following years.

In recognising the input of partner Councils across the MIA, Commissioner Fitzsimons acknowledged the significant contribution from Griffith Council for the management and delivery of this vital new infrastructure.

“The opening of this Fire Control Centre Complex is only possible through the continued investment by the NSW RFS, State and Local Governments.

These investments reflect the ongoing support for, and commitment to, our thousands of volunteer NSW RFS firefighters Commissioner Fitzsimmons said.

“Our volunteers are committed to helping their communities at any time of the day or night, and these new facilities will assist them to deliver that important work,” said Commissioner Fitzsimmons.