The $3.48 million brand new Manyana Fire Station, jointly funded under the Australian and NSW Government's Bushfire Local Economic Recovery (BLER) Fund, has been unveiled at a community event today.
More than $20 million in BLER funding has been allocated to Shoalhaven City Council to help respond to the impact of the 2019 Currowan bushfire and prepare the region for future natural disasters.
The new Rural Fire Service (RFS) Station on Bendalong Road was built on a greenfield site and replaces the old shed located at Cunjarong Point. It services the villages of Manyana and Bendalong.
The station boasts four truck bays, a multifunction room, kitchen, office, locker rooms, breathing apparatus (BA) room, laundry and off-street parking.
Minister for Regional NSW Tara Moriarty said this upgraded facility will support the incredible efforts of the local NSW Rural Fire Service volunteers, providing them with the resources they need to respond quickly and effectively when it matters most.
"The resilience shown by Manyana, Bendalong and neighbouring communities since the Black Summer bushfires has been extraordinary. By investing in infrastructure like this, we're supporting local emergency services and ensuring peace of mind for the future," Ms Moriarty said.
Federal Member for Gilmore Fiona Phillips said she was proud to be delivering projects like the new fire station, to help protect the Bendalong and Manyana community from future natural disasters.
"Through the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements, communities in Manyana and surrounds are better equipped to respond to emergencies in time for summer," Ms Phillips said.
"The new station provides a space where locals can gather and where RFS members can meet and train their new recruits," she said.
"It's not every day we build a brand new fire station and this is a sign of our commitment to the local community and the volunteers who keep our neighbourhoods safe.
"I congratulate everyone involved and encourage new residents of Manyana and Bendalong to consider putting their hand up to volunteer."
Mayor Patricia White thanked the Australian and NSW governments for co-funding the critical infrastructure project and helping local communities to recover and rebuild.
"Manyana, Bendalong and surrounding areas were hit hard by the fires and this upgrade means locals are now equipped for training and better able to respond to emergencies," Cr White said.
"While the Black Summer Bushfires left a lasting impact on our community, taking steps to prepare for future natural disasters helps us be more secure and resilient," she said.
"This fire station is a much-needed community facility but it's our local Rural Fire Service members who are our local legends. Thank you to our volunteers for their support while the station has been upgraded."
RFS Assistant Commissioner Leigh Pilkington said members of the Shoalhaven District played an integral part in the firefighting response during the 2019-20 fire season and rose to the challenge.
"These upgrades are a great investment for the brigade and its members, and the communities they have and continue to protect," Assistant Commissioner Pilkington said.
"This station will better serve the growing needs of the local area and provide a central hub for surrounding brigades to come together."
Pictured (L-R): Shoalhaven Mayor Patricia White, Federal Member for Gilmore Fiona Phillips, RFS District Manager, Superintendent Matthew Reeves, Manyana Station Captain Nathan Cattell, State Member for South Coast Liza Butler, RFS Assistant Commissioner Leigh Pilkington.
