A significant upgrade of the Barwon Downs fire station will help the local CFA better respond to the threat of fire and create a new community hub in the south-west Victorian town.
Member for Western Victoria, Gayle Tierney MP officially opened the station today on behalf of Minister for Emergency Services Jane Garrett.
The $240,000 extension creates a new space for the Barwon Downs brigade to conduct training and meetings, including courses for firefighters across the South West CFA District.
The area will also serve as a hub for the wider community, used by the Barwon Downs Tennis Club on competition days and the Barwon Downs Community Group for meetings and events.
The Victorian Government has contributed $180,000 to the project, with the Colac Otway Shire putting in $25,000.
The brigade, the tennis club and the community group have collectively provided $20,000, while the brigade estimates $15,000 of in-kind labour has also gone into the extension.
The Barwon Downs Fire Brigade has a strong record of serving the town and the surrounding area since it was established in 1963, responding to bush, grass and structure fires, as well as assisting in other emergencies. It currently boasts 27 members.
Quotes attributable to Member for Western Victoria, Gayle Tierney MP
“The Victorian Government is proud of the vital work performed by the CFA, which has almost 60,000 members and helps protect 3.3 million Victorians and more than one million homes and properties.”
“With this bigger, better fire station, Barwon Downs brigade members will be able to continue their wonderful work serving the community well into the future.”
“The town as a whole will also benefit, with the new community hub to provide a valuable meeting space for the Barwon Downs Tennis Club and the Barwon Downs Community Group.”