New Clarence Valley Aviation Support Centre to open at Grafton Airport

Summary

NSW Rural Fire Service (NSW RFS) members will celebrate the opening of the Clarence Valley Aviation Support Centre this Saturday at Grafton Airport.

Senior Assistant Commissioner Bruce McDonald AFSM will join Clarence Valley Mayor Jim Simmons to inspect and officially open the $750,000 facility which is an important infrastructure project that will better support aviation operations across the region.

“This facility is the first of its kind for this area and demonstrates our commitment to provide our volunteers with state-of-the-art facilities to help them better protect their communities,” Senior Assistant Commissioner McDonald said.

“The new Aviation Support Centre includes amenities and office areas to meet operational needs, including a dedicated space for pilots to conduct their daily briefings.

“The site also features a six bay shed to maintain adequate levels of supplies, such as retardant and gels, which are required for aerial firefighting.”

The facility has already been used operationally this bush fire season to support more than 12 aircraft over a two week period in August.

“The Aviation Support Centre will also be activated to support aerial operations of other agencies, as well as for firefighting efforts beyond the Clarence Valley area,” Senior Assistant Commissioner McDonald said.

Senior Assistant Commissioner McDonald will also thank Clarence Valley Council for their continued support and for ensuring firefighters have the equipment, infrastructure and resources needed to provide the community with a world class level of protection from fires.

“To have such wonderful support from local council and the community demonstrates how highly regarded our volunteers are,” Senior Assistant Commissioner McDonald said.

“The completion of this important infrastructure project allows the dedicated members from the Clarence Valley Aviation Support Brigade to do their job more efficiently.

“Having aircraft operate directly from Grafton Airport allows for a swift response to support the ongoing work of 35 brigades and more than 1000 members across the Clarence Valley area.”

Senior Assistant Commissioner McDonald will also acknowledge the commitment that firefighters have shown throughout the bush fire season.

“This year we have seen prolonged and significant fire activity across northern NSW and the continuing hard work and enthusiasm shown by our volunteers to willingly go out and protect their communities does not go unnoticed.

“We must also thank family, friends and colleagues of all NSW RFS volunteers.

“We know it takes their support and patience to help Rural Fire Service members do what they do.”

Contact Name: State Duty Media Officer

Contact Phone: (02) 9898 1855