Local volunteers, dignitaries and community members gathered at the new Boyd Circuit facility for an official opening ceremony on Saturday 23 May, recognising both the future of emergency response in Parkes and the volunteers who have served the region for generations.
The modern, purpose-built facility replaces the Unit's previous headquarters, which was damaged by flooding, meeting operational demands and improving the region's emergency response during floods, storms and rescues.
The new Unit headquarters includes garages for rescue vehicles and boats, storage for specialist rescue equipment, offices, training rooms, a kitchen, change room facilities and upgraded technology to support emergency operations.
The project was funded through a $3.5 million investment from the NSW Government and $1.3 million through the Community Assets Program under the jointly funded Australian and NSW Governments Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements.
During the official opening of the new Unit headquarters, three specialist emergency response vehicles were handed over to strengthen operational capability across the region. The new assets included a Community First Responder Vehicle, an Inflatable Rescue Boat and a Light Flood Rescue Vehicle.
The NSW SES Parkes Unit currently has 43 members and is encouraging more locals to volunteer in both operational and support roles, particularly flood rescue and road crash rescue. Members receive all necessary training to ensure they are well prepared for their roles.
Locals interested in volunteering with the NSW SES are encouraged to contact the Parkes NSW SES Unit or visit the NSW SES website to apply.
Quotes attributable to NSW Minister for Emergency Services, Jihad Dib:
"The opening of this facility is a proud moment for Parkes and for the dedicated SES volunteers who serve their community.
"This new headquarters supports our volunteers by giving them modern facilities and equipment they need to continue protecting people during floods, storms and rescues.
"I have seen first-hand the impact of the 2022 Central West floods on communities across the region and I know this facility is an important investment that will play a key role in strengthening our future emergency response."
Quotes attributable to Federal Minister for Emergency Management Kristy McBain:
"The Parkes SES volunteers provide an incredibly valuable service to their community through some of their toughest times.
"This new facility will ensure they can continue their vital work for many years to come.
"I am proud to be part of a government that supports projects such as these that help communities recover stronger and build resilience for the future."
Quotes attributable to Member for Orange, Philip Donato:
"This is a fantastic outcome for Parkes and the wider region.
"The new Unit will significantly enhance local emergency response capability and support volunteers who give so much back to their community."
Quotes attributable to Senator for New South Wales, Deborah O'Neill:
"SES volunteers provide a critical service. This new facility equips the SES to continue to provide help to the people of Parkes and beyond.
"I take this opportunity to thank all of our SES volunteers, and also to encourage anyone who can, to think about signing up to the SES. Come along to this great facility and be a part of the great service the SES provides for our communities.
"The flood events of 2022 were extraordinarily challenging. I am proud to be a part of a Labor Government that recognises the increasing impact of climate events and invests in protecting our communities who are at risk of future climate events."
Quotes attributable to NSW SES Commissioner, Mike Wassing AFSM:
"The Parkes Unit has a proud history of helping the community through storms, floods, rescues and major emergencies.
"Today we celebrate not only a new building, but the commitment and service of the volunteers who make this Unit so important to the region.
"This facility gives our members the resources and operational capability they need to respond quickly and effectively when people need help most."
Quotes attributable to Parkes Shire Mayor, Neil Westcott:
"This new SES headquarters is a significant investment in the safety, resilience and future of our community.
"Our SES volunteers play a vital role in protecting lives and supporting residents during emergencies, often in challenging and dangerous conditions. This new facility ensures they have the modern resources and operational capability they need to continue serving the Parkes Shire and surrounding region.
"Council is proud to support projects that strengthen emergency services infrastructure and recognise the extraordinary contribution of our local volunteers, whose dedication and commitment make a real difference in times of need."
