PYALONG is set to receive a much-needed new fire station as part of the State Government’s $126 million Fire Services Reform funding program.
The new station will replace Pyalong’s existing 38-year-old building and will enable the Pyalong Fire Brigade to safely house required emergency appliances, provide access to male and female changing areas and adequate toilets, and storage and meeting room areas to accommodate training and other brigade needs.
The funding package was announced under the government’s Fire Services Reform in June to provide the CFA with greater capability in critical areas such as new volunteer training programs in health and safety and leadership, and 50 new dual-cab fire trucks with burn over defensive systems.
It also includes funding for a trial of respiratory equipment to protect volunteer firefighters from bushfire smoke, new personal protective clothing for every active operational volunteer firefighter, as well as a range of station support measures.
Member for Northern Victoria Jaclyn Symes said CFA volunteers worked tirelessly to protect their communities, and it was important they had the facilities needed to support the fire response.
“The new stations will better prepare and protect our communities and will also help stations recruit new members,” she said.
“It’s great to announce this significant investment into the CFA and its selfless volunteers who give up so much of their time to serve their communities.”
Member for Euroa Steph Ryan, who has been outspoken about the need for a new station at Pyalong, said she was delighted community advocacy had resulted in the project being funded.
“I resolved to fight for a new station for Pyalong CFA volunteers after I met with them in February and they told me that they had been on the list for an upgrade for 15 years but nothing had happened,” she said.
“A new station will enable the brigade to house their equipment in one place and provide amenities for volunteers.
“The Pyalong CFA is a strong brigade with committed members. I congratulate Captain Brendan Kelly and the entire brigade.”
