CFA’s Mooroolbark Fire Station will be transformed into a bigger and more modern building, thanks to more than $286,000 in community donations.
CFA District 13 Operations Officer Tim Holland said the $400,000 project was now underway with temporary fencing, builders and machinery on site.
“The Mooroolbark Fire Brigade remain focused on responding to fire and other emergencies while renovations are underway and response will not be affected by the works,” Mr Holland said.
“The extension and refurbishment of the fire station will modernise the building to meet the growing needs of the community and ensure our volunteers have a station that will establish them for at least the next 20 years.”
As part of the works, the west side of the existing building will be extended to include a new purpose-built space to store equipment including turnout gear, hoses and breathing apparatus, alongside housing a cleaning area and workshop for minor maintenance.
The back of the engine bay area will also be extended to create a safer space for firefighters to move around fire trucks. The meeting room will be refurbished and will include the installation of a new kitchen, amenities and an office.
The engine bay area will improve safety for firefighters as the brigade is soon to receive a new, larger CFA medium pumper.
Mooroolbark Fire Brigade Captain Tony King welcomed the extension and refurbishment of the station.
“We are very grateful to all community members who have donated towards this redevelopment, particularly through the local Bendigo Bank branch, and to our brigade members who have been tirelessly fundraising to get this project off the ground,” he said.
“The donations we’ve received so far have been phenomenal, but we still do have a bit more to go to complete renovations, so there are plans for more fundraising later in the year.”
Author: CFA Media