The new West Gidgegannup Bush Fire Brigade station was officially opened on Sunday by Ms Jessica Shaw MLA on behalf of the Emergency Services Minister Francis Logan.
The $2.5 million facility was constructed as a result of collaboration between the City of Swan, the Department of Fire and Emergency Services and the West Gidgegannup Bush Fire Brigade in order to provide improved services to the community.
City of Swan Mayor David Lucas said the purpose-built facility would meet the current and future needs of the local Bush Fire Brigade.
“The City of Swan is proud to have been a major contributor in the project to bring the West Gidgegannup Volunteer Bush Fire Brigade station to life,” he said.
“The new facility will not only help the brigade’s response times to issues that arise in our communities, but will also help to build the skills and knowledge of our volunteer firefighters.”
“On behalf of the City, I would like to thank everyone involved in the planning and construction of the facility which will now be an invaluable asset to our volunteer firefighters.”
The government funding provided for the construction was the largest ever invested in a stand-alone volunteer bush fire brigade facility in Western Australia’s history.
Member for Swan Hills, Jessica Shaw MLA said the new permanent base was a fitting location for the dedicated volunteers who ensure the safety of the Swan Hills community.
“The important role that our volunteer firefighters play in protecting our communities cannot be understated”, she said.
“This new facility will provide the West Gidgegannup brigade with the resources they need to continue their critical role in supporting the State’s emergency services.”
Fire and Emergency Services Commissioner Darren Klemm AFSM said the West Gidgegannup Bush Fire Brigade station is a purpose built facility that will provide benefits to both volunteers and the local community.
“This magnificent new facility will give West Gidgegannup volunteer firefighters a great base to meet and train, store their appliances, and most importantly respond to bushfires,” he said.
“Volunteer firefighters play an integral part in keeping our community safe and I urge everyone to also play their part by preparing for bushfires this summer.”
The newly built station has a four bay appliance shed, training and incident control rooms, office space and radio room facilities as well as large-capacity water tanks.
