VICTORIA’S busiest fire station is now also the biggest.
The Dandenong Fire Brigade officially opened its new home on Saturday (10 October).
Members marched from the old station at 120-122 Princes Highway to the new station, 400 metres away at 186-194 Princes Highway.
Dandenong Fire Brigade Officer in Charge Paul Carrigg said the march symbolised the brigade leaving its 30-year-old post and assuming its vigil over the community in the new station.
“The new Dandenong Fire Station has been located and built to meet the current needs of the brigade responsible for protecting lives and property in this heavily populated and busy area,” he said.
“This integrated brigade responds to more than 2300 call-outs per year – more than any other CFA brigade – so it was important to update the station to meet the ever-changing complexities of our work and the increasing demand for our services in the community.”
CFA Chief Officer Euan Ferguson said the 90-strong team of 50 volunteers and 65 career firefighters would respond not only to Greater Dandenong and surrounding areas, but other parts of Victoria with specialist appliances and skill sets.
“I have no doubt this $13 million state-of-the-art facility will boost service delivery to the local area and the rest of the state now and into the future,” he said.
The station includes six fire truck parking bays, amenities for 16 on-shift staff, administration offices, large meetings areas, 51 car parking spaces, outdoor training areas including a dedicated road accident rescue training space, and a vehicle maintenance and cleaning area.
Construction started in December 2013 and the brigade moved in in July.
Emergency Services Minister Jane Garrett said signalised direct access to Princes Highway would allow easier access to EastLink and improved response times to Dandenong North and Dandenong South.
“Having the best facilities will keep our communities safe, and help prevent our firefighters being harmed while they protect us all,” she said.
“It’s clear the bushfire season is upon us. It will be a long, hot and dangerous season for everyone – people need to prepare now.”
