CFA’s busiest fire station is officially opening its new home in Dandenong which is now the biggest fire station in Victoria.
The ceremony will follow CFA tradition with a march at 2pm from the old fire station at 120-122 Princes Highway to the new station, 400 metres down the road at 186-194 Princes Highway in Dandenong.
Dandenong Fire Brigade Officer in Charge Paul Carrigg said the march symbolises the brigade leaving its old post and assuming its vigil over the community in the new fire station.
“The new Dandenong Fire Station has been located and built to meet the current needs of the brigade responsible for protecting lives and property in this largely populated and busy area,” he said.
“This integrated brigade responds to more than 2,300 call outs per year, more than any other CFA brigade – so it was important to update the station to meet the ever changing complexities of our work and the increasing demand for our services in the community.
CFA Chief Officer Euan Ferguson said the integrated team of 90 firefighters, including 50 volunteers and 65 career firefighters, provide 24/7 response to not only Greater Dandenong and surrounding areas, but also to other parts of Victoria with their specialist appliances and specialist skill sets.
“I have no doubt this $13 million state-of-the-art facility will boost service delivery to the local area and the rest of the state now and into the future,” he said.
The design concept of the station was based on the Geelong City Fire Station with an expansion to cater for additional manning numbers per shift.
The facility boasts six fire truck parking bays, amenities for 16 on-shift staff, administration offices, large meetings areas, 51 car parking spaces, outdoor training areas, including a dedicated road accident rescue training area a vehicle maintenance and cleaning area.
Building of the station began in December 2013, employing more than 130 building contractors and tradespeople which was a great boost for the local economy. The brigade moved in to the completed station in July this year.
“The new fire station will allow us to deliver a more comprehensive level of direct and timely support to surrounding brigades as well as being able to offer the community specific information, guidance and fire safety related services,” Mr Carrigg said.
“This is a proud moment for the Dandenong members and I look forward to watching them enjoy their new home while they continue to serve and protect the community for many more years to come.”
Images by Uniform Photography and Keith Pakenham - CFA
Author: CFA Media