Backed by a $2 million NSW Government investment, the new facility replaces the former building with a larger, fit-for-purpose unit designed to support the current and future needs of local volunteers.
Almost double the size of the previous building, the new facility features garages for the latest generation of NSW SES rescue vehicles and boats, equipment storage, office space, a training room, kitchen, change room facilities and upgraded technology to support emergency operations.
Although Tibooburra is home to fewer than 100 residents, the Unit supports surrounding stations, remote communities and travellers across a vast area of the Far West. NSW SES volunteers regularly respond to storm damage, flood response and resupply, general land rescue, road crash rescue support, stranded motorists and requests for assistance alongside other emergency services.
Just recently, residents in Broken Hill, Packsaddle, Tibooburra and Wanaaring were isolated due to localised flooding and the closure of numerous unsealed roads. During the flooding event, SES Units in the remote communities became a hub for supplies and support.
The new Unit builds on ongoing investments in emergency services capability across Far Western NSW, including the recent upgrade of the Packsaddle NSW SES Unit and additional resources delivered to Broken Hill.
The official opening recognised six NSW SES members who received Long Service Medals in recognition of their years of dedicated service to the community.
Quotes attributable to NSW Minister for Emergency Services Jihad Dib
"In the Far West, SES volunteers are often called on to respond across vast distances and in some of the toughest conditions in the state. This new facility will help ensure they're equipped to do that safely and effectively for years to come.
"We're proud to support NSW SES volunteers in some of the state's most remote communities and invest in the safety and resilience of residents across the Far West.
"The Minns Labor Government is investing in the people who step up for their communities, making sure our emergency services have the facilities that match the vital work they do every day."
Quotes attributable to the Member for Barwon Roy Butler
"I welcome this investment in Tibooburra and the Far West so that our SES has a modern, fit for purpose facility to operate from. This unit deserves this upgrade, it's one of the most remote SES Units and is often called upon to ensure the residents of Tibooburra, visitors and those located on surrounding properties have access to first responders in times of crisis.
"In thinly populated parts of the state, it is difficult to recruit members, but new facilities help current volunteers feel valued and hopefully encourages others to join this important emergency service agency. I congratulate the six members receiving long service medals today and appreciate their dedication and service to the community."
Quotes attributable to NSW SES Commissioner Mike Wassing AFSM
"The volunteers at Tibooburra do an incredible job in one of the toughest operating environments in the state. Long distances, isolated communities and challenging conditions are simply part of the job out here.
"Whether they're responding to storms, supporting isolated communities during floods, carrying out land rescues or helping stranded travellers, our members are always ready to lend a hand when they're needed.
"Today is also an opportunity to recognise six members receiving Long Service Medals. Their commitment over many years is a great reflection of the dedication and community spirit that defines the Tibooburra Unit."
Quotes attributable to NSW SES Tibooburra Unit Commander Leroy Henderson
"The new unit is certainly an upgrade. The old building didn't have enough room for all our vehicles, having that extra space will make a big difference for our members."
"We are a pretty close-knit team. In a small town like Tibooburra, everyone knows everyone, six of us even work together. This makes for a really strong Unit.
"We've had five new members join recently; it will be great to be welcome them into a new facility."
