Bridget Vallence MP, Coldstream Firefighter Robert Bethell, Coldstream Captain Sean Bethell, Harriet Shing MP, Coldstream Secretary Yvonne Bethell, Coldstream Firefighter David Timms, CFA A/CEO Jason Heffernan
Coldstream Fire Brigade volunteers have celebrated the official opening of their new fire station which will improve their ability to serve the local community.
The new station features three motor-room bays, a large brigade meeting room, and separate turn-out rooms and change facilities for men and women.
The new $1.5 milion building has replaced the former station which was also located on Killara Road, and from which the brigade had been operating since 1966.
Brigade members were joined by Member for Eastern Victoria Harriet Shing and CFA Acting CEO Jason Heffernan to officially open the new building.
Coldstream Captain Sean Bethell said the new facility will help the brigade better serve and protect the community.
“It’s exciting to have a new fit-for-purpose facility to help serve the rapidly expanding Coldstream community,” said Captain Bethell.
“The drive-through engine bay will be fantastic as we no longer have to reverse in, and the extra concrete at the back of the building is great for training on-site.
“The history from the old station has been brought over with us, including photos and a museum exhibition with old radios and knapsacks that we used to use.
“There will be lots of memories from the old station that won’t be forgotten, but we now have a chance to make new memories at the new station.
CFA Acting CEO Jason Heffernan said it was fantastic to open the new facility for the Coldstream Fire Brigade and wider community.
“This new station will be an asset to the thriving Coldstream Fire Brigade, allowing our volunteers to continue doing what they do best – protecting lives and property,” said A/CEO Heffernan.
“Coldstream volunteers are experts in both urban and wildfire environments, and this new station now matches the professionalism of its members.
“I would like to thank the brigade for their invaluable service to their local community and beyond.”
The brigade will hold community day later in the year when they will welcome locals to see the new facilities and encourage new members to sign up.