Stroud SES volunteers have a new home following the official opening of their $2.1 million headquarters on Saturday 17 October.
The new facility is around three times the size of the former building in Booral, providing volunteers with more space to train, store equipment and respond to emergencies across the region.
MidCoast Council managed construction of the facility on behalf of the NSW State Emergency Service, with funding provided by the NSW Government.
MidCoast Council Mayor Alan Tickle said the opening was a fantastic outcome for the broader region and the dedicated volunteers who support the community during emergencies.
"Our SES volunteers play an incredibly important role in keeping our communities safe, particularly in a region like ours that is no stranger to floods and severe weather," Cr Tickle said.
"This new facility provides them with the space, equipment storage and modern amenities they need to carry out their work safely and effectively.
"It's a significant improvement on their previous premises and a great investment in the safety and resilience of our community."
The new headquarters includes a training room, kitchen, office, change facilities, showers, vehicle garage and additional equipment storage.
It will support volunteers responding to storms, floods, road crashes and other emergencies across a large area stretching from Barrington Tops National Park to Tea Gardens and the northern coast of Port Stephens.
Over the past three years, Stroud SES volunteers have responded to around 350 incidents, highlighting the important role the unit plays in the region.
Cr Tickle said Council was proud to have played a role in delivering the new facility.
"This project has been a great example of Council working alongside the NSW Government and SES to deliver infrastructure that makes a real difference to our community," he said.
"I'd like to thank the NSW Government for funding the project and acknowledge the hard work of everyone involved in bringing it to life.
"Most importantly, I want to thank our SES volunteers for the time and dedication they give to helping others. This is a facility they can be proud of for many years to come."
The new headquarters is located on Gloucester Street in Stroud, near Allen Park, bringing volunteers, vehicles and equipment together in one central location.
