South Warrandyte Fire Brigade firefighters will start their first shift at a brand new fire station in Park Orchards today (Friday, 22 July).
Volunteers will make the move from their former base at South Warrandyte to a bigger and better station on Falconer Road, where they will be supported for the first time by career firefighters.
To mark the occasion, volunteer firefighters will drive fire trucks in convoy from the old station to their new base – just in time for their first shift starting at 8am.
South Warrandyte Fire Brigade Officer-in-Charge Jamie Hansen said firefighters would be working as part of an integrated model, where career firefighters and volunteers work alongside each other.
“The new location and the introduction of career firefighters will enhance the brigade’s ability to service the Warrandyte community and the State of Victoria during major fires and emergencies,” Mr Hansen said.
“Just over two years ago, South Warrandyte volunteers recognised the benefits of an integrated model and put forward a proposal to CFA to expand the brigade, which brings us to where we are today.
“Career firefighters have also undertaken advanced first aid training, which allows them to attend Emergency Medical Response incidents, in addition to a range of other emergencies including house fires, accidents and hazardous materials incidents.
“Having career firefighters based at the station 24 hours a day will take pressure off volunteers, their employers, and most importantly – their families.
“Volunteers are and always will be an essential part of our response.
“This new facility will also mean better training and development opportunities for members of South Warrandyte and surrounding brigades.”
This state of the art fire station features three engine bays to house three trucks and measures around 1200 square-metres, spread across two floors.
South Warrandyte Fire Station is the newest of now 35 CFA integrated brigades around the state where career firefighters work alongside volunteers. These stations are located in high-growth areas, provincial centres or areas with a risk-based need.
Author: CFA News