Three years after it became operational, Broadford Fire Brigade volunteers have celebrated the official opening of their new fire station.
The station, at the corner of Hamilton and Govett streets, features three motor-room bays, a large brigade meeting room, and separate turn-out rooms and change facilities for men and women.
The station also features a workshop and separate external shed, a training yard and an office. Special facilities include a compressor room where breathing apparatus cylinders can be refilled, which supports brigades across the region, particularly those in the Hume, Mitchell and Murrindindi catchments.
Brigade members were joined by Member for Northern Victoria and Minister for Emergency Services Jaclyn Symes and CFA acting chief officer Garry Cook to officially open the $2.3m building.
Broadford Fire Brigade volunteer Natalie Bloomfield said the new facility would boost the brigade’s ability to serve and protect the community.
“It’s exciting to have a new fit-for-purpose facility for our dedicated volunteers and our growing Broadford community,” she said.
“The drive-through engine bays are fantastic as we no longer have to reverse in, and the extra concrete at the back of the building is great for training on-site.
“These modern facilities mean we can get the trucks in and out of the station quickly, which really improves our overall service to the community. “
Mr Cook said it was fantastic to officially open the new facility for the brigade and wider community.
“This new station will be an asset to the thriving Broadford Fire Brigade, allowing our volunteers to continue doing what they do best – protecting lives and property,” he said.
“Broadford volunteers are experts in both urban and wildfire environments, and this new station now matches the professionalism of its members. “
Ms Symes said the station was funded through the State Government’s CFA Capital Works Program.
Broadford has a long history of fire fighting, with Broadford Rural Fire Brigade established in 1934 and an Urban Fire Brigade in 1947, merging more than 30 years ago to form the current brigade.
Broadford Fire Brigade also played an important role during the 2019-20 Black Summer bushfires, with members travelling on strike teams to Wodonga and NSW to support firefighting efforts and take on incident management roles.
Ms Symes said the brigade was also integral in responding to the 2009 Black Saturday Bushfires, which affected the surrounding community.
“I am beyond thrilled to see this station finally open – I know just how long this brigade has been campaigning for new facilities so it’s a proud moment to have helped deliver them and to see them up and running,” she said.
“The new fire station gives brigade members the modern base they need to keep up their important work fighting fires, and in giving back to the community.”
