The McGowan Government, along with a generous donation from a former volunteer firefighter, have helped deliver two new fire stations for Volunteer Bushfire Brigades in the South-West.
Emergency Services Minister Stephen Dawson today joined local volunteers for the official opening of the Dardanup Central Bushfire Brigade Station and Waterloo Bushfire Brigade Station.
Through the Emergency Services Levy, the McGowan Government has invested $450,000 in the Dardanup Central facility, while more than $390,000 has been allocated to the Waterloo project.
The construction of Dardanup Central was further supported by the generous donation of $90,000 from the estate of former South-West Bushfire Brigade volunteer firefighter Alexander Poad.
The Waterloo station will be based at the former community centre, which has been transformed to accommodate the brigade after previously being left vacant.
Both Volunteer Bushfire Brigades were established in the 1940s and have played a vital role in protecting their communities.
Waterloo Bushfire Brigade currently has 53 active members, while Dardanup Central Bushfire Brigade has 40.
As stated by Emergency Services Minister Stephen Dawson:
“It is fantastic to open two new fire stations in Western Australia’s South-West, which will help local volunteers continue to provide a vital service to the region.
“The McGowan Government is committed to supporting regional WA and surrounding communities will benefit greatly from having modern facilities with state-of-the-art equipment.
“The site for the Waterloo station has particular historical significance for locals – it was originally built in 1898 and has been vacant for some time, so it’s pleasing to find a new purpose for the area.
“Through the Emergency Services Levy, the McGowan Government is investing in volunteers who give up their time to keep people and communities safe.”
As stated by Collie-Preston MLA Jodie Hanns:
“As the member for Collie-Preston, I am thrilled today to see the opening of both the Dardanup Central Bushfire Brigade Station and Waterloo Bushfire Brigade Stations.
“It’s a timely reminder, as we’ve seen over the past few days, that the South-West region, including areas in Collie-Preston, have experienced a number of bushfire emergencies in recent years.
“It is pleasing that these volunteers will have access to a new facility, which will enhance their ability to continue to keep the local community safe and respond to bushfire emergencies.”
