The Bedfordale (Australia) Bush Fire Brigade (BBFB) just officially opened its new, $1.7 million volunteer fire station.
Emergency Services Minister Reece Whitby joined Fire and Emergency Services Commissioner Darren Klemm AFSM and City of Armadale Mayor Ruth Butterfield to open the station, which will enhance training opportunities for BBFB as it prepares for the next bushfire season. In addition, it can act as an incident control center during major operations.
Located on Admiral Road, the new station features four vehicle bays, improved training and communications facilities, and has been built proactive to cater for growing personnel numbers and additional vehicles.
The facility is larger than BBFB’s former headquarters of more than 35 years. Its modern amenities and expanded outdoor areas aim to enable BBFB to host a range of community events.
The State Government supported the construction of the facility with a $372,000 Emergency Services Levy grant and $51,000 for water tanks as part of the Western Australia Recovery Plan, while the City of Armadale contributed $1.2 million and BBFB volunteers fundraised more than $54,000.
“Today marks a significant milestone for the Bedfordale Bush Fire Brigade and one that recognizes the incredible work volunteer firefighters do for Western Australia,” says Whitby. “It is vital our emergency services volunteers have facilities that enable them to train, build and maintain skills as they respond to emergency incidents that could potentially threaten lives and property.
“Through the Emergency Services Levy, the Government is investing in our volunteer brigades, giving them the equipment and infrastructure required to help keep communities safe.”