The NSW Police Force today, opened the new Wilcannia Police Housing Estate dedicating the project to their long-serving Barrier Local Area Command Manager Rick Egan, NSW Police say.
Barrier Local Area Commander, Superintendent Paul Smith, said Rick Egan was instrumental in securing this project and passionate about the recruitment of staff to the Far West.
"Unfortunately, Rick passed away during the final planning stages of the estate."
"The ‘Rick Egan Estate’ is a significant $3.5 million investment into the Wilcannia community and will assist NSW Police Force greatly in the recruitment and - more importantly - the retention of staff within this community," said Supt Smith.
The ‘Rick Egan Estate’ has a common entertainment area including pool and BBQ area which is surrounded by four three-bedroom and one four-bedroom buildings.
Additionally, a single unit for visiting police and garage complex are situated at the rear of the Estate.
Various ‘green’ aspects of the Estate include:
• Rainwater harvesting for use as grey water.
• Pre-heating of hot water via roof tubes.
• Solar electricity panelling on each building.
• Roof lights (skylights) to minimise artificial light use.
• High raked ceilings to improve ventilation and insulation to minimise air-conditioning.
• Appropriate use of whole of life building products.
• Low maintenance gardens with appropriate plants.
Rick’s wife, Sandra and son, Jason, joined Western Region Commander, Assistant Commissioner Geoff McKechnie, in officially opening the ‘Rick Egan Estate’ today where a brass plaque commemorating the opening was unveiled and set in sandstone overlooking the entertainment area.
Superintendent Smith said; "I thank Rick and the others involved for making this project possible".
