Regional firefighting hub: one of the biggest & most advanced

Commissioner Fitzsimmons said the state of the art Fire Control Centre Complex is a community asset that will enable NSW RFS members to manage fire emergencies, with all of the necessary resources, equipment and facilities under one roof.

"This first class facility is a focal point for operations, logistics and community information. "It has been designed to act as a hub for major emergency operations; boasting 18 vehicle bays, workshop facilities, training rooms and equipment stores.

"The facility also houses both the Yorklea Brigade Station and Northern Rivers Support Brigade Station whose members now have an industrial kitchen, storage for six trucks, a dry store and access to meeting rooms on site.

"The Fire Control Centre is ideally located at the Casino Airport making it easier to send firefighting aircraft to rapidly developing bush fires in the area," said Commissioner Fitzsimmons.

"I have no doubt this ground breaking new facility will provide a tremendous boost to volunteers as well as the Northern Rivers community," said Commissioner Fitzsimmons.

Commissioner Fitzsimmons said that the new complex is a state of the art facility that is already being referred to as a 'centre for excellence'.

Multiple organisations such as the police, paramedics and Fire and Rescue NSW will use this resource for training purposes, strengthening coordination between local emergency management agencies.

Planning for the new $3.7 million facility began in 2008 and was made possible through a partnership between the NSW RFS, State government, Richmond Valley, Lismore and Kyogle Councils.

"The opening of this Fire Control Centre Complex reinforces the strong partnership between the NSW RFS, State and local governments.

"We are holding a Community Open Day on Sunday 19 August between 10am-2pm and are encouraging everyone to come along, with their families, to have a look at this impressive new firefighting complex and get advice on how to protect themselves, their families and properties from fire," said Commissioner Fitzsimmons.