Two brand new stations for Tamworth Rural Fire Service volunteers

At the official openings, Assistant Commissioner Lane said that the two stations are a valuable resource for the local community and tremendous boost for the volunteer firefighters.

"Previously both of the brigade's firefighting resources had been stored on private premises, a most generous gesture from the owners. However these purpose-built stations are a far more fitting base for these well established community brigades.

"Both of the facilities have room for the crews' trucks and the Niangala station in particular has arrived just in time for the summer bush fire season," Assistant Commissioner Lane said.

"The development of these stations is a demonstration of the support of the local RFS brigades and its members. I have no doubt the both facilities will build on the brigades' commitment to protecting their local community from bush and grass fires."

Assistant Commissioner Lane also paid tribute to both the Weabonga and Niangala brigade's long-standing members, with both brigades being established since the early 1950's.

"The 43 volunteers that make up the Weabonga and Niangala Rural Fire Brigades have all played an integral role in their communities, whether fighting bush fires, house fires, attending road accidents or assisting during storms and floods.

"While our members don't volunteer for recognition, the opening of these stations is a way for the Tamworth community to acknowledge the brigades' value and their ongoing contribution," Assistant Commissioner Lane concluded.