Northampton Volunteer Fire and Rescue Service (VFRS) will have a new home next year, with a Western Australian indigenous-owned company contracted to build a state-of-the-art $3.9 million fire station.
The modern facility will support life-saving operations in the region, with the design incorporating a road crash rescue training area, radio tower for improved communications and additional space for the brigade to grow its membership in future years.
The tender was awarded to GBSC Yurra, a 50 per cent indigenous-owned WA company that specialises in offering indigenous employment opportunities.
All sub-contractors involved in the construction are based in Geraldton, providing important economic support for the region as it continues to recover from Tropical Cyclone Seroja.
Northampton VFRS has 30 members who respond to local emergencies including road crash rescues, HAZMATs, structure fires and bushfires.
The volunteers have turned out to 44 incidents in the past two years, providing assistance to more than 200 people and contributing a combined 370 hours of volunteering to their local community including the significant long duration response to Cyclone Seroja.
The brigade has outgrown its current facility, which was constructed in 1975 and suffered damage to its roof during Tropical Cyclone Seroja last year. Construction is scheduled to begin later this month.
As stated by Emergency Services Minister Stephen Dawson:
"Northampton VFRS put their lives on the line to keep the community safe all year round, which is why the McGowan Government is investing in a state-of-the-art facility for these dedicated volunteers.
"It's also pleasing that the station will be built by a Western Australian indigenous-owned company using local contractors, as part of the McGowan Government's commitment to Close the Gap by providing economic opportunities for Aboriginal people
"This will be a critical boost to the local economy at a time when the region needs our support.
"I thank all past and present members of Northampton VFRS for their dedication to serving their community in times of need and look forward to seeing the brigade in their new home."
