The NSW Government is investing $21 million in the safety of Northern NSW communities with the development of two new bush fire and emergency management centres in the region, including a new Namoi Gwydir Fire Control and Emergency Operations Centre.
The new Namoi Gwydir facility will be built on a larger site opposite the existing Control Centre in Narrabri. It will include a new station for the Narrabri Headquarters Brigade and a helipad.
The NSW Rural Fire Service (NSW RFS) awarded the construction contract to Hines Construction Pty Ltd who will soon begin building the facility.
The centre will feature state-of-the-art operational workspaces, training rooms and storage facilities, better supporting the needs of local volunteer firefighters.
The centre will provide local emergency services with the cutting-edge technology and resources they need to effectively manage a multi-agency response to hazards, including storms and floods.
The new facilities are being developed in response to the 2020 NSW Bushfire Inquiry, which identified the need for upgraded emergency management infrastructure in the region.
“These new centres will ensure our firefighters and emergency services have the modern infrastructure they need to better protect lives and properties.” said Minister for Emergency Services, Jihad Dib.
“These centres strengthen our ability to respond to emergencies across the region, ensuring communities have the resources and coordinated support they need to face future challenges.”
“This work builds on wider investment in firefighting fleets and equipment across the emergency services to ensure resources are in place to prepare for future disasters.”
The second emergency management centre will be located in the Clarence Valley, in Ulmarra, next to the Grafton airport.
“These new centres are designed to support day-to-day operations and large-scale emergency management, ensuring our firefighters are better equipped to respond when disasters strike.” said Commissioner of the NSW RFS, Rob Rogers.
“These purpose-built facilities will enable our dedicated staff to provide even greater support to our volunteer members and the local communities they protect.”
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