Firefighters in the Mid-West are better resourced than ever before following the opening of a new $6.53 million fire station in Geraldton today.
Emergency Services Minister Joe Francis said the new station, on North West Coastal Highway, reflected the State Government's undertaking to provide first-class facilities for emergency services personnel.
"The Government is committed to supporting our firefighters, who provide a life-saving service to the community," Mr Francis said.
"They work to protect the community every day - responding to fires, road crashes, chemical spills and other serious incidents.
"This new facility will provide extra capacity to allow firefighters to train, store equipment and recuperate between incidents."
The purpose-built station includes three large appliance bays and an increased accommodation capacity, with the ability to meet extra demand for staff and equipment in the future.
The facility features an outdoor training area, including a confined space rescue tower to enhance firefighters' skills and a hygiene facility to ensure personnel are free from contaminants when returning from incidents.
"The Mid-West's population is expected to grow to more than 80,000 by 2026, and this new facility will ensure emergency services are prepared to meet the region's future needs," the Minister said.
For more information about the Department of Fire and Emergency Services, visit http://www.dfes.wa.gov.au
Fact File
Last year, officers from Geraldton Fire Station attended more than 450 incidents
The new fire station replaces the existing station which was built in 1969
Minister's office - 6552 6500
