Fire and Emergency Services Minister Mark Ryan and Maryborough MP Bruce Saunders today joined Queensland Fire and Emergency Services Commissioner Greg Leach to inspect construction progress on the new North Coast Region (NCR) Headquarters and replacement Maryborough Fire and Rescue Service (FRS) station.
Minister Ryan said the facilities would support the great work those on the frontline undertake in support of the local community, as is so evident when natural disasters strike.
“I am so proud of all the emergency services personnel who showed exemplary skill, strength and resilience while helping the Maryborough community through recent devastating flooding,” he said.
“This new facility in Maryborough will further enhance capability and allow room to house a special appliance crew, with these specialist positions allocated from the Government’s commitment to employ an additional 357 firefighters across Queensland.”
Maryborough MP, Bruce Sanders, said Maryborough would benefit from the investment in infrastructure and more firefighting resources into the future.
“The Palaszczuk Government’s investment in new firefighting facilities in Maryborough transforms service delivery and supports construction jobs in our community,” Mr Saunders said.
“This is what the Palaszczuk Government does, investing in the services local communities need.”
QFES Commissioner Greg Leach joined the Minister on his visit to the region and acknowledged the importance of bolstering resources in a location well-versed in natural disasters.
“Only last month we witnessed the devastation of severe flooding on local homes and businesses across the Wide Bay, and the need for a swift response by emergency services personnel,” Mr Leach said.
“The extraordinary work of the State Emergency Service (SES), FRS and Rural Fire Service (RFS), highlighted the importance of having highly skilled first responders who can deliver a high standard of service when mother nature strikes.
“Positions for a special appliance crew have been allocated to Maryborough as part of the commitment to deliver 357 professional firefighters over 5 years, from 2020-21.
“Additional staff and resources in areas like Maryborough enable QFES to evolve and ensure our emergency response capability continues to protect all communities.”
Secretary of the United Firefighters Union Queensland John Oliver welcomed the announcement.
“I commend the government for rolling out their election commitment to boost professional firefighter numbers across Queensland.
“The commitment of an additional 357 professional firefighters is the most significant increase in firefighter numbers since 1925 and it goes a long way towards enhancing the safety and conditions of firefighters.”
