- New fire station for Gelorup Volunteer Bush Fire Brigade officially opens
- $2 million facility jointly funded by State and Local Governments
- Enhanced design will provide a contemporary emergency service and a central location for training
Volunteers in Gelorup in the State's South West have been handed the keys to a new fire station, after more than $2 million was invested to upgrade the brigade's headquarters.
Importantly, Gelorup Volunteer Bush Fire Brigade's new facility has been built with volunteers in mind to provide a contemporary emergency service, which is central to allow greater access to training opportunities.
The modern station includes new changing areas for managing personal protective equipment, larger appliance bays, and purpose-built communication and training rooms.
Construction of the new facility started in April 2023, and was funded by nearly $1.6 million through the Emergency Services Levy, and a further contribution of $445,000 from the Shire of Capel.
The original station was constructed in 1991 for just $12,000 by the Shire of Capel.
Over the past three years, volunteers at Gelorup Volunteer Bush Fire Brigade have dedicated more than 860 hours responding to both local incidents and major emergencies.
The Cook Government is investing more than $140 million into providing new equipment, resources, personal protective clothing, and facilities to support our frontline fire and emergency services.
As stated by Emergency Services Minister Stephen Dawson:
"This magnificent facility will give Gelorup volunteer firefighters a great base to meet and train, house their appliances and, most importantly, respond to bushfires in the area.
"Our Government is committed to ensuring our frontline fire and emergency crews have the right tools and resources to protect local communities, and we're investing many millions of dollars across the State to make this happen.
"For many years the Gelorup Volunteer Bush Fire Brigade has been safeguarding their local community and this new station will serve them for many years to come.
"The upgrades were made possible through funding from the Emergency Services Levy and an additional contribution from the Shire of Capel.
"I wish the brigade all the best for what looks to be a busy bushfire season."
As stated by Collie-Preston MLA Jodie Hanns:
"I am delighted to see this project reach completion today. This facility is the realisation of the vision of the brigade over many years.
"It will ensure that the volunteers at Gelorup Volunteer Bush Fire Brigade can continue to serve the community by offering vital assistance during fires and, importantly, bushfire prevention programs and training.
"As we head into bushfire season, I'd like to thank the Shire of Capel for their support of this facility, and the dedicated volunteers who continue their outstanding job of keeping their community safe."
