I joined NSW Rural Fire Service Deputy Commissioner, Peter McKechnie, over the weekend for the opening of the upgraded rural bush fire station for The Rock Brigade, and handover of tankers for the Fargunyah and Pleasant Hills Brigades.

This new station is more than welcome, replacing a thirty-year-old station that was effectively an outdated shed with few amenities for volunteers. The improvements in the new station include a washing area for breathing apparatus, a training/meeting room and a ‘dirty room’ so that dirty clothing can be removed and cleaned separate to the rest of the station

But perhaps most importantly, the new station has separate change and shower rooms for men and women – a long way from the old shed that had no separate facilities and just one toilet. This is significant because it will help the brigade to attract more female volunteers.

The opening was an opportunity for members and guests of the Riverina District to come together and celebrate the dedication and achievements of this group of highly skilled volunteer firefighters.

I’d like to thank the local RFS volunteer members for their dedicated service. Their efforts do not go unnoticed. These men and women remain on-hand 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and we are extremely proud and grateful for their contribution to our local community.