25/2/96
Creating a more unified approach to fire fighting has taken a major step forward with the new Mundaring fire station, according to Emergency Services Minister Bob Wiese.
Mr Wiese said the new facility catered for vehicles and equipment for volunteer brigades from both the Western Australian Fire Brigades Board and Bush Fires Board.
"While this relationship is more common practice in rural areas, the Mundaring station is the only station in the metropolitan area which adopts this integrated approach," he said.
"The new station is an important step in achieving better co-operation and co-ordination between our volunteer fire fighting groups in combating all types of fire emergencies, regardless of what coloured uniform is worn."
Mr Wiese said the 25-member team at the Mundaring station not only had the responsibility to fight fires, but also to carry out road accident rescues and manage incidents involving hazardous or toxic materials.
"It is a credit to the members of the Mundaring station who willingly assume and share those emergency responsibilities, creating a far more effective teamwork approach," he said.
"This spirit of co-operation is also spreading between other emergency service authorities, the State Emergency Service and Conservation and Land Management.
"By establishing these partnering arrangements, these services can operate more efficiently to minimise the number and impact of fires and other emergencies."
Mr Wiese said the new $40,000 Mundaring fire station highlighted the State Government's commitment to ensuring volunteer brigades had the proper facilities and equipment to provide an efficient and effective service.
He said a key objective of the Government program to assist the State's fire fighting services was supporting and promoting initiatives to encourage community awareness and active participation in fire prevention.
"The onus is on everyone to take responsibility to prevent a fire disaster and these programs are crucial in areas like the Mundaring region, which consists of a high proportion of residential developments alongside large tracts of bush and forest," Mr Wiese said.
Media contact: Mark Thompson on 322 2311
